A CO Down crop packaging company has expanded its global reach by securing a range of new international contracts.
UPU Industries, based in Dromore has boosted the company's total exports by 20 per cent on the back on increased sales and is now operating in 30 international markets, including South America, where UPU has seen its business increase three-fold in Uruguay and Chile over the last nine months.
UPU manufactures crop wrapping, binding and protection products for the agricultural and industrial sectors and is best known for its market-leading ‘Farmer’s’ branded range. In addition to its manufacturing plant in Dromore, UPU has a production facility in Kansas, USA.
The success comes as a direct result of significant investment in the firm's production facilities, new product development, international marketing and a strong sales team. UPU’s appointment of specialist sales staff, including those fluent in Spanish and French, has also helped the company develop relationships with its international customer base and grow its market share in Spain, France, Belgium and Canada.
International sales director, Gary Millar said the company has experienced exponential growth in recent times.
“The past 18 months has been a period of rapid development for the company and this has seen us extend our reach into new markets as well as building our business in areas where we were already well established."
“We also invested heavily in our overseas marketing and have exhibited at the some of the most high profile international agricultural shows and trade events, such as Agritechnica in Germany and the Canada Outdoor Farm Show in Ontario. Backed up with the expertise of our multi-lingual sales force, we have strengthened our global presence, built our contact base and engaged directly with wholesalers, distributors and the wider farming community," he added.
Targeting further export growth in the year ahead, UPU has identified the silage and forage markets of New Zealand and Australia as a focus area and is currently seeking opportunities to extend is distributor network and drive sales in the region
