Derby-based Mirage reports that it has responded to “continuously rising demand” for its pipe-cutting and flange-facing technology by purchasing a 5,000ft2 building next to its existing engineering headquarters. As a result, it will expand its manufacturing and service operations workshop to 17,000ft2.

The site at Enterprise Way includes full-scale engineering, fabrication, maintenance and R&D departments and produces machines used across the oil and gas and petrochemical industries. Mirage employs more than 40 people, with a further six jobs to be created as the company targets a trebling of its annual turnover by 2016.

Managing director Richard Silk said: “International demand is a key driver for the on-going expansion of our UK premises, and the extension to our operational headquarters in Derby is a natural step.

“We have increased our manufacturing operations to meet demand for our machines from exploration and production companies, while maintaining our reputation for producing technology of the highest quality, with performance and reliability the cornerstones of our business. Expanding our staff will be a key element of the expansion of the business.”

Mirage, which was acquired by Norwich-based sub-sea services group Acteon in 2006, began life as the manufacturer of the Silk range of motorcycles in the 1970s. Its engineers then developed the Silk range of portable machine tools, and Mirage was established as a separate entity in 1993.