Thirty-three new jobs are being created by Fivemiletown manufacturing firm Acheson and Glover.


The new roles - which include a Precast Production Manager, General Operative staff and business service roles in HR and Digital Marketing - will be based across the company’s six bases: Fivemiletown, Ballygawley, Dungannon, Toome, Magherafelt and Carryduff. Eight new staff have been recruited to Fivemiletown.


Managing Director of Acheson and Glover, Stephen Acheson says that the new jobs “herald good news for a beleaguered local manufacturing industry” and come on the back of a series of contract wins and “strategic partnerships set to enhance business outputs.”


Work has begun on a major contract from Carillion, in which Acheson and Glover will provide flooring and structural precast stairs in eight new schools in Great Britain.


In addition, the company has secured contracts to provide products during the construction of: a care home in Bristol, a school in Devon and Greystones Marina regeneration project (in Wicklow).


Strategic partnerships have been struck with Lagan Homes, which will buy 5,500m² of Granaza flags, a new Acheson and Glover product from Ballygawley that has not yet been launched; H&B, a large buying group for independent builders merchants; and Maccaferri, the market leading segmental engineered retaining wall company.


Mr. Acheson says that the new jobs are a positive sign, coming on the back of the buyout of Acheson and Glover by its Chief Executive Raymond Acheson and recent reports that year-on-year sales are on the up since the takeover. Mr. Acheson bought out the firm in May 2014 in a move that saved around 400 jobs after holding company Acheson & Glover Group Limited fell into administration.


Stephen Acheson, Managing Director, AG Acheson & Glover, said: “At a time when our manufacturing industry is facing challenges, positive news such as the creation of new jobs is most welcome. Winning contracts of this nature in GB enhances our reputation for quality products and service delivery. It showcases our capabilities in this arena and marketplace and will only seek to secure future wins, which in turn creates more jobs for Northern Ireland and encourages indigenous construction activity on our own shores.


“There are exciting plans for growth here at AG, including entering new markets, recruiting more staff across the manufacturing and sales teams – all testament to our commitment as a local employer and a champion of Northern Irish industry.”