DuPont invests £40m in Londonderry facility

Leading manufacturing firm DuPont has announced it is to invest £40 million at its Maydown facility in Londonderry to expand global operations.

The investment, which is likely to create 40 new jobs, will see the firm expand its global Kevlar manufacturing operations.

Speaking during a visit to the Maydown site on Tuesday, Enterprise Minister Barry Gardiner said the announcement was a “terrific endorsement” by DuPont of the skills of employees and track record of successful innovation that have made this plant “one of the most technologically advanced manufacturing facilities in the world”. “Maydown’s experience in the development of innovative manufacturing technology for DuPont’s synthetic fibre operations helped it to secure a significant share of a massive expansion in Kevlar production,” the Minister said.

“Since its establishment in Derry almost 50 years ago, DuPont has been an important part of the North West community, creating wealth through direct employment and through successful long term business relationships with local suppliers.

“Not only will DuPont benefit from an already excellent relationship with the community, the North West will gain significantly from the new, high quality jobs that will be provided in a growing and successful technology-focused industry.”

In outlining the new investment, Ian Hudson, DuPont’s Advanced Fiber Systems European Director, said: “Global demand for DuPont Kevlar has soared with the need for safety and security worldwide, In addition, new applications are being developed that harness the lightweight strength of Kevlar fibre to enhance protection and performance.

“This capacity expansion is a critical step in growing the Kevlar business, maintaining DuPont leadership in the performance fibres market, and delivering the innovative new products customers expect from DuPont.”

DuPont Kevlar fibre is five times stronger than steel on an equal weight basis. It is used to enhance the lightweight strength of products in a wide variety of applications, including body armour and protective clothing, performance materials and consumer products.

It is hoped that the new investment will provide opportunities for companies from Northern Ireland and other parts of the UK in the fabrication of parts and construction and commissioning of the new equipment, as well as in the ongoing operation of the plant.

(MB/SP)