Heron Bros Group is investing £6.5 million in its MDF division, which will result in the creation of 30 jobs over the next two years.
The Co. Tyrone group's firm produces skirting, architrave, kitchen parts, and door frames, and will use the investment to grow its subsidiary 'Promould.'
Promould, a specialist producer with over 20 years of experience, is a global leader in the field, with a vast product line that includes real wood veneer, specialized paper, PVC, and painted profile finishes.
Heron Fit Out, the company's other arm, which will profit as well, was founded in 2017 and specializes in timber fire door production, primarily for the UK and Ireland markets.
The move, according to the firm, is intended to capitalize on expanding market prospects in the construction, renovation, and fit-out industries. The investment will also include new equipment, factory facilities, and machinery, while the 30 new jobs will be spread over both enterprises on Cookstown's Drum Road, and will feature a mix of production, sales, and administrative posts.
Martin Blaney, manufacturing director at Heron Bros, said:
“This latest investment in our two manufacturing businesses in Cookstown represents a significant vote of confidence in the teams and the products they are delivering to meet changing market demands and new opportunities.
"We have experienced significant growth across both businesses in the last couple of years and believe that by delivering important synergies through this investment, we will make both businesses even more innovative and competitive.
"This will now allow us to grow the team and our expertise to help deliver our ambitious growth plans for the manufacturing and supply side of the Heron Bros Group.”
Heron Bros. Ltd. was founded by six brothers in Draperstown in 1956. Construction, joinery manufacture, building suppliers, quarrying, property investment and development are the company's main businesses.
Through its HHT Renewables Division, it has diversified into the renewable energy sector over the years. In its most recent reports, filed in September, the company reported sales of £128 million and pre-tax earnings of £14.5 million.
Sales increased by 20% from £106.9 million to £128.4 million, while pre-tax earnings more than doubled from £5.4 million to £14.5 million. However, the period was significantly longer than prior accounts – 18 months instead of the typical 12.
it said the pandemic had a considerable impact on the economy as a whole, as well as the construction industry, as all but the most important construction sites were temporarily closed.
The sale of items increased from £105 million to £124.8 million, according to the company's sales numbers. Its rental income had increased from £1.9 million to £3.6 million.
According to the corporation, consolidation of existing operational areas, innovation, and the exploration of new markets are all driving its growth. Damien O'Callaghan, the company's new group managing director, was also recently revealed.
Damian Heron, who is now executive chairman of Heron Bros Group, is his predecessor.
