The firm designs and manufactures high quality, bespoke horseboxes with integrated living quarters for people. The investment has enabled Annard to develop its products and target high value overseas markets, with 75 per cent of the firm's turnover now generated from outside Northern Ireland.
The company has also been attending horse shows in the Republic of Ireland, such as the prestigious Dublin Horse Show, and across Europe, attracting interest from as far away as Dubai and Australia.
Philip Cherry, Managing Director of Annard, said: "Owners often need to transport their horses long distances and our horseboxes enable them to do this comfortably and safely. This ensures that horses are in good physical and mental condition during their journey and gives both owners and riders peace of mind which is invaluable, particularly if the horses are to be used in competition.
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"With Invest NI's support, we recruited a marketing manager who has worked hard to promote our product and ensure that our brand is increasingly recognised around the world."
Mr Cherry continued: "The investment also enabled us to refine our product designs and introduce innovative features to our trucks. Furthermore, we improved our internal management information systems, making us more streamlined and efficient. We are now well placed to continue to grow our export turnover and capitalise on the interest we are attracting from Europe, the Middle East and Australasia."
Graham Davis, Invest NI's Director of Regional Economic Development, said: "Annard is an excellent example of a local company competing in international markets by making use of the high standard of skills and knowledge available here and translating them into upmarket products."
He encouraged Annard to build on the success to date and consolidate its growing global reputation.
(GK/JM)
