Galbally engineering company to create 18 new jobs

The family firm in Galbally has started a recruitment drive to hire new production and sales staff as exports rise across Great Britain and Europe.

The company designs, manufactures and markets a range of agricultural machinery products, cattle handling equipment and trailers.

The new jobs are expected to contribute over £350,000 annually to the economy in additional salaries.

The company took part in Invest NI’s business growth programme in March this year and as a result is carrying out an action plan to grow the business, particularly in new export markets.

Its sales in Scandinavia, France, Germany, Switzerland, Australia, and Europe’s Benelux region have experienced substantial growth during the last three years following recent product developments.

The progress has received assistance by Invest NI’s Jobs Fund, which has permitted the company to recruit staff quickly, according to director, Shane Nugent.

“Invest NI’s support with reviewing our business performance, assessing new market opportunities and identifying barriers to growth has been invaluable,” he said.

“Over the next three years we will focus on consolidating our position within the Great Britain trailer market, broadening our product portfolio and exploiting new opportunities in export markets.”

Kevin McCann, Invest NI’s director of advanced engineering and construction, described the firm as “forward thinking and innovative”.

“The business has built up a strong reputation over the years among key customers and used Invest NI advice and support to refine its development plans for the future,” he added.