Donegal drinks firm Mulrines is to create 54 new as it sets up a new manufacturing facility in Co Tyrone.
The Ballybofey-based business is expanding after buying 22 acres of land at the former Herdman’s Mill in Sion Mills.
The company confirmed its plans to establish a new operation at the site in April 2022, but Invest NI has now confirmed its financial backing for the new drinks and liquid food manufacturing facility.
The economic support agency has offered up to £486,000 in support.
The mill, which dates back to the mid-19th century, was once a major centre of the textile industry in the north-west, employing around 1,000 people.
It finally closed in 2004 and was later bought by the late Strabane lottery winner Margaret Loughrey.
Peter Mulrine, chairman of Mulrines, said: “This project is the culmination of a number of years of research, planning and negotiation. Invest NI has worked with us throughout.
“The UK plant-based beverage market is experiencing year-on-year growth and this new factory will provide an opportunity for us to enter the fast-growing oat drink market. It also offers additional capacity for our core fruit juice and beverage business.
“As a business we are focused on sustainability. All our packaging planned for the Sion Mills site is made from fibre board, a renewable source and is fully recyclable. We recognise and are encouraged by the benefits of oat drink which leaves a far smaller carbon footprint than dairy milk.
“The construction of the new factory capacity and the resulting new jobs are just the first phase of our investment in Sion Mills. The additional production capacity offers a significant opportunity for us to deliver additional fruit juice sales across our existing and new markets. As a result of increased production, we are likely to need additional storage which will form the basis of our second phase of investment in the facility.”
Alongside its Ballybofey facility, Mulrines also operates a base in Chester, where it produces a range of UHT beverage products for the UK, European and US markets.
Invest NI’s interim chief executive, Mel Chittock said: “This project will see the former Herdman’s site brought back to life after nearly 20 years, creating new employment in the area and delivering significant local supply chain benefits.
“The company plans to create the 54 new jobs by 2026. The roles include operatives, administrators, team supervisors, maintenance and logistics. With average salaries in the mid £20k range, the roles offer great opportunities in the area.”
