First Grade Projects was founded in May 2021 by Jeremy Morgan and Nicky Rees, with headquarters established at Albion Industrial Estate near Pontypridd. Due to its formation, the new company successfully saved multiple jobs following the unfortunate post-COVID closure of a Cardiff-based business.
We chose Pontypridd as an ideal location for our headquarters, housing both our carpentry workshop and offices. Its convenient location, with excellent transport links, makes it an ideal position to attract local staff.
Since our inception, we have employed dozens of local workers, including several apprentices, providing them with a platform to develop new skills and build their careers. We are proud that many of our original team members remain with us, and their development into skilled professionals is something we greatly value.
The company is proud of its roots with both Jeremy and Nicky growing up in the Rhondda Valley. We are fortunate to have supported numerous good causes, particularly within the local area. These include sponsorships with Mond Valley Seniors Golf Team, Pontlliw FC 1st, 2nd, and 3rd teams, Virginia Park Youth Centre, Ferndale & District Veterans, Stanleytown FC, and Moneyfield FC Women’s Team. Beyond grassroots organisations, we’ve extended our support to larger clubs such as Dragons Rugby and Swansea City AFC.
Since launching, we’ve faced many challenges, both operational and financial, some of which threatened the survival of the business. However, thanks to hard work, determination, and a committed team, we’ve managed to establish ourselves in the market and experience steady growth. In 2024, we expanded by acquiring separate office facilities in Llantrisant.
As a manufacturer, environmental responsibility is central to our ethos. We are proud members of the Green Small Business scheme, continually assessing our processes to source sustainable materials and minimise waste. One of our core principles is to reuse and recycle wherever possible. In late 2023, with grant funding support from Rhondda Cynon Taf Council, we expanded our facilities to include an industrial shredder and briquette press. This equipment allows us to process wood based waste, reducing our landfill contribution by up to 90% compared to previous methods.
Doing the right thing is something we place great importance on. We are a Disability Confident Employer and full members of both the Armed Forces Covenant and the National Living Wage scheme – commitments we feel passionately about.
We have established strong relationships with our client base both locally and in certain instances, nationally. These partnerships, along with our solid foundations, have set a platform for further growth and expansion.
