A County Armagh engineering business has created 40 new jobs to help it ramp up production and meet global demand for its products.
SFM Engineering said the move, backed by Bank of Ireland, is part of a £3.5 million investment which will see it expand significantly at its new 80,000 square foot headquarters in Keady.
It fabricates and manufactures parts for the material processing equipment industry and the expansion has allowed it to ramp up production by 100%.
The business has been in operation in Keady since 2006, buying land adjacent to its original site to grow its footprint. It sits on the site of a former railway station in the centre of Keady.
“It was important to us that, given the opportunity, SFM Engineering continue that legacy and now this investment will provide greater stability and sustainability,” Paul Breen, Managing & Commercial Director, SFM Engineering said. “We are proud that products being produced here in Keady are being used in machinery and production processes in Northern Ireland, the Ƶ and as far away as USA and Australia.”
“The investment in the premises and equipment means we can meet the growing demand for our products and services. With the additional capacity, we have an opportunity to double our output and our team. This will provide further skilled jobs right here in Keady, helping us give back to the local community and economy.”
He praised the bank’s support.
“Bank of Ireland Ƶ have been beside us throughout our expansion plans, from the planning stages to completing the works and now looking ahead to the future,” he said. Not only have they supported us with finance, but the team have taken the time to get to know our business and understand our future plans in terms of growth, export and sustainability, which is really important to us.”
Diane McCall, Senior Business Manager, Bank of Ireland Ƶ, said SFM are set for an exciting period of growth.
“SMEs play a vital role in our economy from an economic and social development perspective and we are delighted to work closely with SFM Engineering and support them on this next phase of their successful business journey.”
