Welsh AI Firm Launches Platform to Cut Waste and Boost UK Steel Industry

GoSmarter.ai, from Nightingale HQ (NHQ), is purpose-built for the reinforcement steel industry and has already worked with manufacturers such as Midland Steel to use digital tools to address practical, day-to-day challenges such as automating data extraction, optimising reinforcing bar (rebar) production planning, and monitoring environmental impact.

The firm said the launch comes at a critical time for the industry, aligning with the UK Government’s newly announced £725 billion infrastructure investment strategy. The strategy, which emphasises large-scale public infrastructure development, is underpinned by digital innovation and a strong commitment to achieving net zero.

In line with the UK strategy, the Wales-made platform can impact the wider UK market by finding waste-cutting opportunities beyond the ability of human effort, helping manufacturers increase revenue and save tonnes of steel from scrap, the firm said.

Globally, the rebar market is set to reach £325 billion by 2031, driven by infrastructure growth and government investment. At the same time, ongoing UK/US tariff uncertainty highlights the importance of innovation and cost-efficiency for maintaining competitiveness.

Steph Locke, Head of Product for NHQ, said the new platform would bridge the gap in the sector, helping manufacturers leverage AI to increase competitiveness.