A BELFAST-headquartered maritime fit-out firm has opened a new office in the Inverclyde area of west of Scotland.
Blu Marine, which already has bases in Salisbury, England and Hong Kong, has leased 3,200 sq ft in the now fully let, Lynedoch Industrial Estate in Greenock.
The move comes after the company secured a contract to fit out two vessels at Ferguson Marine in neighbouring Port Glasgow. Three existing staff will relocate to Scotland to work at the new premises.
Blu Marine managing director, Craig McCoo said having a base in Inverclyde is "essential" due to the new contracts won by the company.
“Blu Marine is tendering for additional work across the UK, and we are confident that our Inverclyde base can grow further as we successfully win more business."
“We looked at quite a few options prior to speaking with the Riverside Inverclyde team and have been delighted with our experience here. Our new premises were spotless, and the speed of completing the deal was impressive," Mr McCoo said.
"Our new premises are ideal for storage and manufacturing, as we assemble small bespoke metal and joinery works for customers."
Andrew Bowman, head of business investment and operations at economic development organisation, Riverside Interclyde added:
“Inverclyde has a rich shipbuilding heritage, and the arrival of global marine business is an excellent boost for the area and our rejuvenated shipbuilding industry.”
Blu Marine was established in 2007 and employs 15 members of staff globally. The company provides innovative and quality outfitting services for the marine industry and has worked on a range of high-profile vessels including the QE2 (Queen Elizabeth 2), the Lord Nelson tall ship, and HMS Caroline.
