A DERRY-based transport firm has launched a new £1 million business hub in response to growing demand for its services.
Airporter, which runs 30 journeys a day to Belfast International and Belfast City Airport from the north west, carrying 155,000 passengers each year, has opened a new facility on the former site of the old Lough Swilly Bus Company in Springtown Industrial Estate.
The 14,000 sq ft hub on the 2.5 acre site is the result of unprecedented levels of demand, with passenger numbers doubling in recent years.
The new £1m hub features on site servicing, fueling and bespoke bus washing with a range of new driver training and rest facilities.
Airporter director, Jennifer McKeever described the investment as a "real statement of intent" for the company.
"Our expansion reflects our success and the growth in the number of passengers so far," she said.
“We now have a purpose-built facility fitted out to provide our team with a working environment which reflects the volume of business we do.
"The investment in the site will allow Airporter to deal with anticipated future growth in demand, but also represents a considerable investment in human resources from a company that already puts a strong emphasis on employee training.
“It’s also entirely necessary because demand keeps growing and that’s only going to continue. Last year was a record year for tourism in Northern Ireland and more and more people are coming to explore the north west."
“The recent work that has started on the A6 will only make it easier for people to travel to and from the north west and the two main airports in Belfast. We expect that more and more people will use the service as the travel time will reduce even further once complete," Ms McKeever added.
Founded in 1996, Airporter has seen staff numbers treble over the past four years, with 30 drivers now working for the company and 15 buses on the road every day. The company has grown from just two drivers and two vehicles, carrying 5,000 passengers in its first year to a fleet of 21 vehicles.
