Business

Co Tyrone-based SIS Pitches invests in new £1.8m English factory

SIS Pitches owner, George Mullan at the company's new manufacturing facility in Cumbria, England
SIS Pitches owner, George Mullan at the company's new manufacturing facility in Cumbria, England SIS Pitches owner, George Mullan at the company's new manufacturing facility in Cumbria, England

A CO Tyrone-based sports pitch manufacturer has invested £1.8 million in a new English factory as part of ambitious growth plans.

Irish-owned SIS Pitches, which operates an office in Dungannon, as well as one in Dublin, has announced the creation of a new turf production facility at its existing site in Maryport, Cumbria.

The major investment has safeguarded more than 50 jobs and is set to create an additional 15 over the next three years. The new manufacturing site will allow the company to increase production volumes and grow its workforce. The added volume of high-quality turf available is also welcome news for the firm's Irish operations.

The new factory, which covers an area of more than 2,100 square metres, is one of the most technologically-advanced production facilities of its kind in Europe and will be used to deliver the highest quality, long-lasting synthetic surfaces.

George Mullan, SIS Pitches owner and CEO said the investment will support the company's ambitious growth plans.

“The Glasson Industrial Estate has been at the heart of manufacturing for more than 50 years and, despite business uncertainty in the face of Brexit, we are very proud to be able to continue that tradition through this significant investment," he said.

“Our new factory will ensure we continue to provide the highest quality products and increased output, maintaining our position as market leader in the manufacturing of synthetic turf.”

SIS Pitches is a world-leading, full-service provider in specialist sports pitches and landscaping grass. The company's wide range of customers include a host of football, GAA and rugby clubs.

SIS has produced two full-size synthetic pitches for Linfield FC, while it is also responsible for the 3G pitch at Kilfennan Community Centre in Derry and the new courts at Irvinestown Lawn Tennis Club in Co Fermanagh.