Seven firms invest £3m in 65 jobs

Enterprise, Trade and Investment Minister Arlene Foster hosted a special event in Londonderry to acknowledge the continued growth and investment by local businesses.

Hunter Apparel, All Pipe Engineering, Fleming Agri-Products, Modern Democracy, Quinnspares, Steam and Generation Services and SmithDehn have each been working on growth projects with support from Invest Northern Ireland.

Praising the commitment of the business owners, Arlene Foster said: “The investments being showcased here total almost £3million and include plans to create 65 new jobs across a range of roles and industries; from engineering and manufacturing to software development and sales and marketing. Once in place, the 65 new jobs will contribute over £1.3million annually in additional salaries to the local economy.

“The commitment being demonstrated by these local companies shows business confidence is improving throughout the area, meaning they are prepared to take advantage of the steadily improving economy. It is through a continued focus on innovation and export that local businesses will remain ahead of the competition, maximise growth and succeed in their chosen markets.

“This event also demonstrates the work being done to enhance the local economy here through collaboration and partnership between a number of stakeholders including local businesses, the council, Londonderry Chamber of Commerce and Invest Northern Ireland. Invest Northern Ireland has been working hard with stakeholders to support local economic development and as a result in the past three years 1,009 jobs have been created in the Derry City & Strabane Council area. In addition, during 2013/14, 915 new jobs were promoted and will be created in the coming years, a 92% increase on the previous year.

“Looking ahead, Invest Northern Ireland continues to work closely with all stakeholders to support the success of the One Plan and has also committed to support the development of an Integrated Economic Strategy, co-funded with the local council, for the new council area.”