A CAERPHILLY company that manufactures 3-D photo images inside blocks of crystal is looking to exploit the lucrative British tourism industry.

Crystal Me 3D, an innovative firm located on Caerphilly’s Western Industrial Estate, has developed cutting-edge laser engraving technology that allows it to reproduce the 3D image crystals from digital images and photographs.

Managing director Robert Davies, who has contacts in the tourism sector, said he hopes the idea will help the firm expand.

He said: “Originally we planned to put cameras into tourism centres, but realised that this was very expensive. We now have our own cameraman but have also perfected a means of building 3D images from photographs or digital images which customers e-mail to us.

“We are getting interest from nurseries by offering them a commission, and believe that schools and colleges will also be potential clients. We have also set up an eBay shop.”

It is also hoped the product will be much in demand at wedding ceremonies, business events and many other outlets.

Clothing supplier Dyfed Menswear, based in Cross Hands, has agreed to promote the crystals as part of their wedding service. Another major menswear retailer is also in discussions over a deal.

Crystal Me 3D started out as a small family venture with Mr Davies’ son Josh and wife Lindy, the company’s editor and secretary respectively, and the firm is expected to record a revenue of £200,000 this year.

The company received planning and marketing advice from the Welsh Assembly Government, as well as a £35,000 grant, which was invested in a laser engraver.

Ieuan Wyn Jones, Minister for Economy and Transport, said: “We need entrepreneurs who can turn clever ideas into commercially-attractive products and services, and the Assembly Government is supporting start-up businesses around Wales by ensuring the expert help and advice they need is readily available.”

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