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Welsh Development Agency Launches 'WalesWatch,' Web-Based Automotive Newsletter

20 March 2000

Welsh Development Agency Launches 'WalesWatch,' Web-Based Automotive Newsletter

    DETROIT, March 20 WalesWatch, a Web-based newsletter
covering developments within the thriving automotive industry in the U.K.
region of Wales, now is live, on-line at http://www.waleswatch.com .
    "With more than 150 manufacturers involved in automotive manufacturing,
Wales is an important contributor to the U.K. and European auto industries,"
said Geoff Sheppard, managing director, International Division, Welsh
Development Agency -- the economic development arm of the Welsh government.
"We value the part these companies play in the global automotive market, and
WalesWatch will help us share their success stories and other Welsh-based
solutions to industry challenges."
    WalesWatch supersedes AutoSource, a print-format newsletter that was
distributed twice yearly as an insert in a major automotive news weekly.
    The premier "issue" of WalesWatch includes stories on:

    *  Ford Motor Company's acclaimed Zetec engines, manufactured in Bridgend,
       Wales.
    *  Osprey Metals' spray forming technology, which is changing how metal is
       shaped in cylinder liners.
    *  Cadman Visual System's super-sized monitor, which promises to speed
       Computer-Aided Design.
    *  Calsonic's super wind tunnel, which will simulate extreme weather
       conditions.
    *  Air International's expansion into Wales to manufacture air
       conditioning units.

    These and other stories will be updated regularly, while audio and graphic
files will be added when appropriate to help illustrate the news.  Eventually,
links to related sites will help readers mine additional information that adds
to their understanding of the feature stories, or engage in their own search
for answers to business expansion questions.
    Readers may register online at the newsletter site, http://www.waleswatch.com ,
to receive e-mail alerts about upcoming stories.
    In its 24-year history, the Welsh Development Agency has helped more than
1,500 companies establish operations in Wales.  International investments in
the region since 1983 have totalled more than $20 billion, making Wales one of
the fastest growing regions in Europe.
    Wales offers businesses a "best business climate" that includes a skilled
and productive workforce, top-notch infrastructure, low corporate and personal
taxes, an unparalleled commitment to technology and innovation and a high
quality of life.  In addition, the WDA provides numerous support programs
including site selection assistance, employee training, research and sourcing
assistance.
    For more information, companies may contact the Welsh Development Agency
at 800-65-WALES or visit the WDA Web site at http://www.locate-in-wales.com .