The Prime Minister has hailed James Bond car maker Aston Martin’s plans for £500m of trade with Japan.
The deal was announced by the luxury car maker’s boss Andy Palmer, who is travelling with Theresa May on her trade mission to the country.
Mrs May said the deal would safeguard jobs at the firm’s plants in Wales and the West Midlands.
She said: “As we prepare to leave the European Union, it is vital that we build on our existing ties with friends and allies.
“Aston Martin is a prime example of the innovative and world-leading firms the UK is proud of and I’m delighted they are joining me on this important trade mission.
Image: Theresa May said she was ‘delighted’ the firm has joined her in Japan
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“Aston Martin’s £500m deal will directly benefit the Gaydon plant in West Midlands and the St Athan plant in Wales, helping safeguard existing jobs and opening new possibilities for future deals with Japan.”
The deal will involve exports of more than £400m, the use of £70m of components from Japanese suppliers, a new headquarters, offices and an expanded dealer network.
Dr Palmer said: “We have long enjoyed a loyal following from Japanese customers and the public alike, with our new dealership in Tokyo set to become our largest worldwide by volume.”
A new Tokyo office will harness research and technology in electric and connected cars, while also developing insights into luxury customer behaviour in Asian markets, he added.
Source: Sky