Quinn Cement open new £2.5 million export facility
New cement export hub at Warrenpoint Harbour to support company’s continuing growth post-Brexit
QUINN Cement and Warrenpoint Harbour Authority have announced the opening of a new cement export hub at Warrenpoint Harbour, in Co. Down, Northern Ireland.
The £2.5 million investment reflects a 10-year deal between the Cavan-based company and Warrenpoint Harbour Authority. Final commissioning of the new facility was completed at the end of January 2017.
The export hub, which was officially opened on Wednesday 8 February, has an operational capacity of 7,500 tonnes and will be dedicated to the export of bulk cement from Quinn Cement operations in Ireland.
The investment is said to be a key pillar in Quinn Cement’s growth agenda for their GB operations and complements a £1.3 million upgrade to the company’s import facility in Rochester, Kent.
Commenting on the development, Dara O’Reilly (second from right), chief financial officer of Quinn Industrial Holdings, said: ‘This is an important and timely development for the business ahead of Brexit. It will allow Quinn Cement to strengthen their supply chain for bulk product, accommodate more flexible transport from theirr production facility in Co. Cavan and enhance the competiveness and sustainability of their operations on both islands.
‘Importantly, we believe this investment will help sustain and grow jobs at Quinn Cement, and underpin economic activity on both sides of the border and in the south of England.’
Peter Conway (second from left), chief executive of Warrenpoint Harbour Authority, added: ‘The port is delighted to consolidate the excellent trading relationship with Quinn Cement with the opening of the new export hub at the harbour.
‘This investment and 10-year deal demonstrates the long-term commitment of both parties to the successful business venture and is a major enhancement to the port’s trade.’
