SJC Hutchinson Engineering in Kilrea, who are laser cutting specialists, have much to celebrate in their 40th year of trading.

They have invested almost £1m in a new state-of-the-art laser cutting machine and expert training programme for their staff.

They have created 10 jobs and plan to expand their plant by 11,000 sq ft making it one of the largest plants of its kind in Ireland.

Mark Hutchinson, Managing Director of SJC Hutchinson Engineering said: "We couldn’t have imagined that after 40 years in business and having faced some of the most challenging market conditions in living memory that we would be recording a significant year of growth, so far, at SJC Hutchinson Engineering.

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"Our new tube laser cutting machine has given us an important competitive edge allowing us to take on more jobs, speed up the manufacturing process and keep costs down for our customers."

The company has adopted a 'lean manufacturing' stance in conjunction which its clients who are based in the coach building, agricultural and quarry industries, throughout Ireland and the UK.

"We knew that to survive the recession and grow the business we had to be bold in our thinking and competitive with every aspect of production.

"The decisions we made, such as investing in expensive new machinery and expert training, have set us on a path of growth that we intend to build upon," said Mark.

By the end of 2011, the company will have 3 flat-bed laser cutting machines, costing £700k each, and is the only company in Ireland to have a 3D tube laser cutter, costing £800k.

Mark continued: "Our technology and know-how means we are a solutions focussed company who, because of our continuing investment in our infrastructure, can offer a competitive and holistic approach to laser cutting jobs.'

(BMcC)