County Antrim-based SDC Trailers (www.sdctrailers.com), the UK and Ireland’s market-leading trailer manufacturer, has completed a 60,000ft² expansion of its facility in Toomebridge and created 50 new jobs, while also improving its production capability and output.

This takes the SDC workforce to over 900 people, making the company one of Northern Ireland’s largest private-sector employers.

CEO Enda Cushnahan said: “The opening of the new facility in Toomebridge is an example of SDC’s proactive strategy to meet the growing demand for innovative trailers, as required by customers in markets at home and abroad.

"The expansion gives us the ability to increase our output of trailers by 50% on a weekly basis. SDC trailers are now in demand in international markets, where they previously had a limited presence.

"The new facility has the systems installed to meet this additional demand, while also shortening delivery times.”

Cal Carmichael, operations officer, said: “Our main objective was to create the best manufacturing working environment in Northern Ireland, enhancing job satisfaction and increasing output of trailers by improving ergonomics.

"The new working environment now uses 50% natural light in large open spaces.

"There is also a new semi-automatic paint line, spacious changing rooms and a subsidised canteen.”