Robinson launches £2million Newry prinitng press

First Minister Rt Hon Peter Robinson MP, MLA today officially launched a new high-tech printing machine, part of a £2million investment by Newry company Cartoncare.

Cartoncare manufactures packaging for the food, pharmaceutical and beauty sectors and has installed the state of the art “Gallus” printing press as part of a £2million expansion project, backed by Invest Northern Ireland.

The new machine, the first of its kind here, will boost the company’s manufacturing capability and enable it to compete for business in lucrative new export markets. Invest NI support will also help the company to ramp up its marketing activities with attendance at trade shows and development of promotional material.

Commending the company on the venture, Mr Robinson said: “I want to congratulate the company on its investment. Despite the current challenging global economic climate, local companies can reap significant benefits from investing in new products and processes that differentiate them from competitors. With this new machine, Cartoncare will add value to its operations and expand its business in new export markets.”

“By embracing innovative practices and market-leading manufacturing methods, Cartoncare has identified an opportunity to build on its excellent performance to date. Combined with the strong ongoing support of Invest NI and the company’s heightened focus on marketing, Cartoncare will continue to contribute significantly to the productivity of the local economy.”

Notes to Editors:

1. Invest NI has offered £231,000 towards a total investment by Cartoncare of around £2m in the purchase and installation of the Gallus printing machine and increasing its marketing activities.
2. The investment will create 16 new jobs. Three posts have already been created and filled, with a further 13 to follow during the next five years, increasing total employment to 31.
3. More information on Cartoncare is available from Joanna Calixto at the company, on 028 3026 6016.
4. Media enquiries to OFMDFM Press Office on 028 9052 1905. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Office via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.