Latest: Almost 100 new jobs for Magherafelt firm Bloc Blinds

Enterprise, Trade and Investment Minister Jonathan Bell has announced a Â£4m investment and 93 new manufacturing jobs at Bloc Blinds in Magherafelt. Supported by Invest Northern Ireland and First Trust Bank, Bloc Blinds' investment includes new manufacturing facilities and extensive market development activities to help drive export sales. Pictured are Edel McCooe, Regional Director First Trust Bank, Minister Bell and Cormac Diamond, Managing Director Bloc Blinds.
Photo by Simon Graham/Harrison Photography — Enterprise, Trade and Investment Minister Jonathan Bell has announced a Â£4m investment and 93 new manufacturing jobs at Bloc Blinds in Magherafelt. Supported by Invest Northern Ireland and First Trust Bank, Bloc Blinds' investment includes new manufacturing facilities and extensive market development activities to help drive export sales. Pictured are Edel McCooe, Regional Director First Trust Bank, Minister Bell and Cormac Diamond, Managing Director Bloc Blinds. Photo by Simon Graham/Harrison Photography

It is believed the jobs boost will contribute £1.7million annually in additional salaries to the local economy.

The Enterprise Minister Jonathan Bell announced the welcome news during a visit to the town on Tuesday.

Cormac Diamond, managing director of Bloc Blinds, said: “This exciting investment follows encouraging business growth in recent years and underpins our ambition to increase sales particularly in Europe and the US.

“Our new manufacturing facility brings the current Bloc Blind lines under the one roof which will help increase production and operating efficiencies. The support and advice of Invest Northern Ireland so far has been invaluable and its support with this expansion will ensure that we have the resources and skill set in place to achieve our goals.”

Mr Bell said: “Bloc Blinds is a growing innovative business and this announcement is welcome news for Magherafelt and the local manufacturing industry.

“The significant investment in new premises, recruitment of the new staff and increased marketing and development activities will help Bloc Blinds position itself a global player in the window covering market. With full manufacturing and multi skilled training provided to all production employees at Bloc Blinds, this expansion offers attractive roles for those returning to work or seeking alternative employment.”