A Crossmaglen manufacturing firm is investing £2.5 million in a new factory and creating 30 jobs, doubling its workforce.

The expansion at Roco follows £8 million in export sales over the last 12 months for its mobile crushing and screening equipment, which is used in construction, quarrying and recycling. The machines are hybrid electric and sold across Britain, Ireland, the US and European markets.

Chief Executive Shane Connolly said the investment is needed to improve product quality and reduce lead times by bringing more assembly work in-house. Doubling the range of machinery options will help attract new international customers after recent export wins, he added.

A Stormont minister said Roco’s export success shows how local firms can compete globally and the investment will create high-quality jobs while strengthening the regional economy.

Invest NI has offered £210,000 towards the new roles, which span production, design, finance and sales. Seven of the jobs are already in place.

Alistair Quinn, Invest NI’s Head of Southern Regional Business, said the agency has worked with Roco since 2020 to build capability and unlock international opportunities. Support for trade shows in the US and the Northern Ireland pavilion at Hillhead contributed to the export growth. The trade team is now connecting the firm with in-market contacts in the US and Middle East to develop opportunities in Mexico, Europe and Asia.