A Co Derry IT firm has announced a £150,000 investment in new premises, creating five jobs.
Acorn IT Solutions has opened new premises in Kilrea, after outgrowing its previous base in Maghera.
The larger premises, which has been supported by finance from Ulster Bank, can now accommodate up to 20 employees and directors Dominic McMullan and Declan Bradley are already making plans to grow the workforce from 10 to 15 within the next year.
Speaking about the move Mr Bradley said it was necessary to continue growth.
“We had been renting a property in Maghera for around 15 years but had subsequently outgrown this. Thankfully, with support from Ulster Bank and the rural development grant, we were able to secure more suitable premises and feel the new location presents even more opportunities for growth for our business.
“We’re so close to the Ulster University Coleraine campus and just 35 miles from both Belfast and Derry which should be very appealing to any job-seekers. Yes, there are challenges for any rural business in this sector but we’re confident we can compete with firms in Belfast to offer graduates great employment opportunities.”
Business development manager at Ulster Bank, Martin Convery added: “Acorn IT Solutions is a great example of a highly-skilled business bringing a unique blend of skills and expertise to a rural area. Small businesses like this have a crucial role to play in our local economy so we at Ulster Bank are really pleased to help entrepreneurs like Declan and Dominic expand their business and help them to achieve their ambitions.”
Among the services offered to clients by Acorn IT Solutions are CRM and payroll solutions for SMEs, software development, application building and the complete range of Sage solutions.
