NI Firm's Savings 'Fuels Success'

An NI firm that specialises in oil storage products and undertakes contract moulding for the environmental, construction services and food service sectors in a number of markets has been boosted.

Invest Northern Ireland has helped Clarehill Plastics to save over £1.5m through a programme of efficiency measures.

The Moira-based firm designs and manufactures oil and fuel storage products for customers throughout the UK, the Republic of Ireland, Belgium, Denmark, the Czech Republic, France, Poland and Slovakia. Clarehill's products are sold under the brand name Harlequin.

In addition to the manufacture of products under the Harlequin brand, Clarehill also produces the contract moulding for several sectors.

Invest NI supported the employment of an individual who implemented a programme of continuous improvement at Clarehill and looked at measures to help the company increase its capability to compete. Invest NI's support was part funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF).

Niall Casey, Invest NI's Director of Business Improvement Services, said: "Clarehill Plastics is recognised in the manufacturing industry as a company which is committed to business excellence. This project further demonstrates Clarehill's focus on achieving sustainable growth through a culture of continuous improvement.

"Reviewing its transport distribution channels, upskilling its workforce and reducing energy costs were just some of the methods which helped the firm to accomplish these considerable savings. With increased productivity and turnover, Clarehill is now best placed to ensure the continued competitiveness of the plant," he said.

Michael Kinder, Finance Manager of Clarehill Plastics, said: "We recognise that innovative products and process development are key to ensuring the future success and prosperity of the business. This improvement programme has been a resounding success.

"The savings achieved will bring long-term benefits to the company and ensure we maximise our profitability. In addition, our enhanced capabilities will help support the future development of the business as we work towards building our position as an industry leader within the fuel storage market," he said, noting that Clarehill Plastics has achieved savings of £1,584,951 through a programme of continuous improvement.

(BMcC/GK)