500 jobs created by Almac expansion

Almac's expansion plans in Northern Ireland (UK) could see the creation of more than 500 jobs during the next 5 years. The first phase of development is expected to begin shortly on a 5.4 acre site, which is adjacent to the company's headquarters in Craigavon, and will comprise the construction of a three-storey office for existing staff and expected recruits. For the second phase of the expansion, the company intends to build a new research facility and a new distribution unit to expand its capacity.

In a press statement, the company explained that it has experienced a "substantial rate of growth" and that the expansion plans will meet future growth requirements. In 2008, the company's UK staff increased by 15% while its US staff increased by 10%. Earlier this year, the company also created 128 new graduate and research positions.

"Since our foundation in 2001, we have grown at record levels and we expect this trend to continue during the coming years," Sir Allen McClay, Group Chairman, explained in a press statement. "With our rapid rate of growth, it was important to put proper plans in place and provide the necessary room for Almac to expand."

In the statement, the company also added that it is continuing to make progress on the construction of its $112-million (76.6-million Euros) North American headquarters.

www.almacgroup.com