BALLYMENA-based pre-cast concrete firm Moore Concrete has created 35 new jobs as part of a £700,000 investment in its operations, bringing its total headcount to 158.
The majority of the roles have been put in place since the start of March, including positions such as graduate engineers, project management, sales, apprentices in civil engineering and construction management.
Managing director Wilbert Moore says that when all the posts are in place, they will “strengthen the company’s technical and management capabilities”.
The company manufactures a wide range of standard and bespoke products for use across the construction, civil engineering and agriculture sectors across the UK.
Moore Concrete remained open for business throughout the Covid-19 pandemic, supporting essential industries, major infrastructure projects and the wider agricultural sector.
Mr Moore said: “Production by 40 per cent in the immediate aftermath of lockdown, but we gradually increased output back to pre-lockdown levels to the point where our manufacturing is now at the highest levels yet this year.
“We’re now looking to further enhance our service offering by investing in our technical, commercial, management and production skills base.
“The farming sector is a key part of our business and, as everyone is aware, agriculture has been operating at full capacity throughout the pandemic. This has been reflected in the continuing investment taking place on farms throughout the UK, all of which is causing a wider ripple effect on the sector’s supply chain.
“We have also seen a resurgence in civil engineering and house building activity right across the UK in recent weeks,” he said.
Graham Whitehurst, chair of Mid & East Antrim Borough Council's manufacturing task force, said: “With its combination of modern facilities, people skills, design expertise and manufacturing experience, Moore Concrete is another example of a local company that is continuing to play its part in supporting the economy, especially at this challenging time.
“The team has shown over the years how it is committed to meeting the needs of its customers and the growth of its workforce is further proof of that.”
