Lisburn-based KME Steelworks saw its turnover grow by 22% in 2017 — to almost £5 million — despite tough trading conditions and secured a Northern Ireland Chamber of Commerce High Growth Business of the Year award.

The company has now announced plans to expand its facility, invest in new machinery and create 20 new jobs.

KME (www.kme-steelworks.com) was founded by Kevin Murphy in 1999 (starting out as Kevin Murphy Engineering); it manufactures steel moulds and provides fabrication services to a range of customers, including Sandvik and Moffett.

It won a £500,000 contract to create the steel form-work for the foundations of the new Wear Crossing bridge at Sunderland, which is due to be completed this year.

Company director Seamus Murchan said: “Our strategy is based on quality and the best client relationship management we can deliver.

"Our growth from 13 employees in 2013 to the current 66 is a clear illustration of how this strategy can lead to success.

“We are on track to continue on the growth path, particularly in the areas of pre-cast mould design and manufacture for the construction industry and in sub-contract steel fabrication.”