75 Jobs Boost For Downpatrick As Finnebrogue Business Expands

Pictured with DETI Minister Arlene Foster during a visit to the company’s premises near Downpatrick is Denis Lynn, Finnebrogue Meats Managing Director.[/caption] Minister Foster said:xa0“Finnebrogue is an entrepreneurial business with a very impressive track record in their field. “They specialise in innovation and the development of premium products in response to new market trends and opportunities identified through its close relationships with leading UK retailers. The new jobs will mean an additional £1million a year for the local economy and provide opportunities for local people. “Support from the Jobs Fund will enable Finnebrogue to respond quickly to new business opportunities and to grow sales faster in Great Britain and export markets.” Recruitment for the new posts, which include several at managerial level, is already underway and is scheduled for completion by the end of March. The Minister announced the expansion at the company’s new plant in Down Business Park, where she was briefed by Denis Lynn, Finnebrogue’s Managing Director. Mr Lynn said: “We are making what is an important strategic investment for the business in response to demand from our existing and potential customers in Britain. Over the last number of years we have seen significant increases in demand for our premium pork products. The company currently employs 115 people and this investment will see that number rise to 190. “Our success is based on the strength of relationships which we have with retailers in a fast growing industry. Our business is growing strongly because of this commitment to anticipate and respond quickly to market trends and opportunities. Over the past three years, we’ve achieved annual growth of around 30 per cent. “The expansion will provide the additional capacity we need to build upon our success in terms of new product development and sales outside Northern Ireland. While our main focus remains on Great Britain, we have pinpointed significant opportunities in other markets and are keen to exploit these in order to achieve even faster growth.” The Jobs Fund is providing assistance of £227,000 towards the expansion.

Local Politicians Welcome Finnebrogue Jobs Expansion

Councillor Dermot Curran has welcomed the jobs boost to Finnebrogue and said: “This is fantastic news for Downpatrick. After many difficulties in planning at the early stages, this factory has now make an important contribution to the local economy. “Denis Lynn has shown determined leadership for local businesses in pressing ahead and securing contracts at a national level. It is xa0avery useful model for young business people. xa0We need to support all of the businesses in the area that can create jobs. The Dermor Curran Young Achievers awards is now open for application and last year Alternative heat from Castlewellan were a winner – they have expanded to employing 43 workers now.” Councillor Patrick Clarke said: “I welcome the recent jobs announcement by the Enterprise Minister that Finnebrogue is creating 65 new jobs as part of a 3 million pounds expansion scheme. It will be a beneficial boost to the local economy. “Over recent years Finnebrogue has grown and expanded through the wide range of premium products that Finnebrogue supply to many leading supermarket chains across the UK.” “I would like to congratulate Denis Lynn with the expansion of the new plant and hope Finnebrogue Meats continues to grow as one of the leading specialists in premium quality artisan pork products.”]]>