US supply chain firm announces $1m investment in new Co Antrim site

International supply chain specialist Supply Technologies has opened a new $1 million distribution centre in County Antrim, tripling the capacity of its Northern Ireland operation following a period of significant growth.

The new facility in Doagh replaces the company's previous premises in Antrim, where its warehousing and office operations were spread across four separate units.

The investment has brought those functions together under one roof, alongside a new kitting workshop, quality inspection laboratory and innovation centre.

Supply Technologies, which is part of US industrial group ParkOhio, supplies and manages components used by manufacturers across sectors including semiconductors, data centres, transport and industrial machinery.

James Smetham, managing director for Europe and Asia at Supply Technologies, said the expansion reflected the company's confidence in the Northern Ireland market.

"Our business in Northern Ireland has grown significantly, and this investment reflects both that growth and our confidence in the opportunities ahead," he said.

"Moving from four separate units into one larger facility gives us the space and infrastructure to operate more efficiently, strengthen our technical capabilities and continue developing the services we provide to customers."

The company has retained its existing workforce of 20 at the new premises, which are located close to the M2 motorway. The larger facility also provides additional capacity for future growth and employment.

Mr Smetham added: "Doagh is an excellent location for us, keeping us close to our customer base while allowing us to retain the experienced team that has been central to our success in Northern Ireland."

The official opening was attended by senior executives from Supply Technologies and ParkOhio, including ParkOhio chief executive Matthew Crawford and Supply Technologies president Brian Norris.

Former US Ambassador to Ireland Edward F. Crawford was guest of honour and joined the company's leadership team for a ribbon-cutting ceremony.

The expansion forms part of a wider $50 million investment strategy by Supply Technologies in new facilities, systems and people internationally.

The company said the additional warehouse space and technical facilities would help it meet increasing demand from manufacturers seeking to improve the reliability and efficiency of their supply chains.

Brian Norris, president of Supply Technologies, said having products available locally was becoming increasingly important to manufacturers.

"Manufacturers are increasingly looking to mitigate any supply chain disruptions, and our customers expect us to have product locally to ensure uptime in their operations," he said.

"Alongside our technical expertise, reliable sourcing and inventory management, this facility gives us more space to house products for our customers, helping them reduce lead times."

The new Doagh operation will provide specialist supply chain services, including component sourcing, quality inspection, inventory management and the preparation of component kits for manufacturing customers.

Its opening comes as Supply Technologies reports strong international growth, including record monthly performance across its global business and Europe and Asia operations.

Edward F. Crawford, who served as US Ambassador to Ireland and has longstanding experience in international industrial business, welcomed the investment.

"Investment in facilities such as this reflects the confidence businesses have in the people, skills and manufacturing capabilities that support their customers," he said.

"It is particularly pleasing to see Supply Technologies building on its established presence in Northern Ireland, retaining its experienced workforce and creating the capacity to support further growth. I congratulate everyone involved in bringing this new facility into operation."

The opening event included tours of the new distribution centre for customers, employees and invited guests.