Fifty jobs have been created by an automotive supply chain firm after more than £20 million worth of orders for a new product.

Shropshire-based Cobra UK won the orders for its new low mass load floor which reduces the weight of the vehicle and offers greater fuel performance and reduced emissions.

It marks a major period of expansion that has seen the company grow from just £300,000 after the MG Rover closure to an estimated £17.4 million in sales for the next financial year.

The company has also profited from a move into manufacturing stadium seating for a host of clubs including Birmingham City West Bromwich Albion and Wolverhampton Wanderers.

General Motors and hybrid car-maker Fiskar were among the first to place an order for the new floor, which was developed with support from the Manufacturing Advisory Service – West Midlands (MAS-WM).

Managing director Gary Seale said: “This is a massive victory for UK innovation and shows what can be achieved if you invest in research and development and have conviction in your ideas.

“It has taken nearly three years to develop and bring to market, but we are now in a position where we have a product that offers significant cost and performance benefits that many global customers are crying out for.”

Cobra currently employs 72 people at bases in Whitchurch and a new facility in Welshpool, and supplies a range of products including electric sun blinds, interior lighting, tread plates and load space covers to the car manufacturing sector.