Butler Mobile Systems (BMS) in Randalstown has developed an innovative mobile kitchen unit with support from Invest Northern Ireland.

The firm is aiming to achieve sales of £296,000 in the Republic of Ireland and Great Britain markets.

The Co. Antrim firm designs, manufactures, repairs and maintains bespoke exhibition, catering and refrigeration trailers as well as operating a hire service for a selection of trailers and marquees.

Invest NI offered over £16,000, part funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), towards the R&D investment which has helped secure over £50,000 in sales to date. The project, to develop a modular kitchen facility with portable units, is targeted at RoI and GB based hire firms and offers the ability to adapt the innovative catering unit’s layout to meet each event specification.

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The unit can be fitted with the required number of ovens, refrigerators and serving space to accommodate the needs of individual customers, who range from outdoor catering firms, film companies, marquee companies for weddings and corporate events, to hotels, local councils and trade fairs.

Carol Keery, Invest NI’s Director of Innovation, Research and Technology, commented: “BMS recognised a gap in the market and sought to develop a product which would enhance its capability, competitiveness and enable growth both in new and existing markets.

“With notable export sales gained from this project to date combined with a continued commitment towards driving the business forward, BMS is progressing well towards its £296,000 sales target.”

Patrick Butler, owner of BMS, said: “In order to increase sales outside Northern Ireland, I responded to a direct customer demand within the catering sector and with the support of Invest NI successfully developed a suitable product which is meeting the needs of the industry.

“I am delighted with the response to date, particularly in RoI and will continue to focus on product development and innovation as the path to achieving sustainable growth.”

(GK/KMcA)