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Redbay Boats in Cushendall has been building high quality boats since it was set up 35 years ago. It has continuously innovated to stay ahead of the competition and in this has been supported by Invest Northern Ireland through assistance for research and development.
The company, which specialises in fibreglass fishing boats and RIBs (Rigid Inflatable Boats),
recently launched its latest vessel, the Stormforce 1650, The 16-metre boat has the potential to be used internationally as a pilot vessel or a small ferry, carrying over 30 passengers on short trips and crossings.
The development of the Stormforce 1650 was supported by almost £50,000 of R&D grant aid from Invest NI.
Tom McLaughlin, Managing Director of Redbay Boats, said: “This landmark project will build on the success of our Stormforce range and help to generate additional sales among new and existing customers, including passenger carriers, fisheries, coast guard and border agencies.
“We hope this latest research and development investment will further advance our export presence and help maintain a prosperous future for the company.”
Speaking at the launch of the new boat, Ian Murphy, Invest NI’s Director of Scaling and Stage of Development, said: “Redbay Boats’ continued investment in innovation has provided the firm with its primary source of competitive advantage.”
Redbay Boats currently employs 20 highly skilled, experienced staff who work on each stage of the design, testing, manufacturing, selling and reviewing process at its Gortaclee Road premises.
The company’s ongoing success has led to the need to take on more staff and it recently secured support from Invest NI’s Jobs Fund for five additional production staff. In September it took part in an Invest NI trade mission to Sweden to explore opportunities there.
“Invest NI’s support over recent years has been fundamental in progressing our business growth strategy. As well as assisting in the extension of our premises, Invest NI has provided technical and financial support in the development and marketing of our products and helped us to develop the skills of our management team,” added Tom McLaughlin..
Invest NI’s R&D support is part funded by the European Regional Development Fund.
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