Derry-based steel manufacturer Global Equipment Spares Ltd (GES) is targeting increased export-led growth, following £800,000 of funding from Santander Business Banking.

GES (www.ge-spares.com) is one of Northern Ireland’s leading manufacturers and suppliers of abrasive wear plates and special steels for the global mining, construction, agriculture and recycling industries.

Established in 2010 by managing director John McClenaghan and sales director Barry O’Neill, the company had a record year in 2017 and is forecasting year-on-year revenue growth of more than 50% for 2018.

The business — along with its subsidiary Sharp Screening Products Ltd (SSP) — employs 85 people and plans to recruit more as it expands internationally.

Northern Ireland is a recognised centre of excellence for mobile crushing machines, and GES is one of the leading firms in the sector. It has a large number of manufacturing and engineering clients.

Mr O’Neill said: “With the support from Santander, we will be able to expand further into international markets — in particular Germany and the USA — and fulfil our growth aspirations.

“The funding has also allowed us to free up cash-flow, while continuing to invest in plant equipment and R&D.”