County Antrim-based MAW Engineering has invested £2.8 million in a new commercial-vehicle venture — including a purpose-built 57,000ft² manufacturing facility in Toome — and will create 46 new jobs.

The new facility will produce and assemble walking-floor trailers and vehicle bodies for use by a wide range of customers.

Managing director Mark Cuskeran said: “We have been operating for over 20 years in the commercial-vehicle sector and see significant opportunities in national and international markets.”

Invest Northern Ireland has offered MAW Engineering £322,000 to help it create the new jobs, which will include finance manager, store, administration and HR positions.

Recruitment is underway, with 26 of the jobs already filled.

Bill Montgomery, Invest NI’s director of advanced manufacturing and engineering, said: “This new venture will bring a range of products to the market that can be designed to meet a customer’s specific needs.

“The company plans to explore business opportunities in international markets, including Great Britain, the Republic of Ireland and Europe.”