Belfast-based construction supply company Ridgeway is set to boost its business by 40% after securing the European and African distribution rights for its Kyowa filter units, known as ‘Rockbags’ for use in offshore marine and civil engineering works.
Rockbags are mainly used for protecting underwater cables and pipelines, as well as stabilising structures.
Ridgeway initially acquired the UK and Ireland distribution licence of the patent protected Kyowa filter unit and the business has since won offshore energy contracts across the UK and Europe.
Projects include works at EDF’s Teesside offshore wind farm off north-east England, Arklow Bank in Ireland, Beatrice in Scotland and Robin Rigg, Rampion and Humber Gateway in England, and Gwynt y Mor off Wales.
Ridgeway managing director Stephen Kane said: “From a starting point over 50 years ago in traditional building supplies, Ridgeway has become a supply chain partner of choice for companies operating in a range of sectors including construction, engineering and offshore marine.
“Founded in 1969, Ridgeway has expanded both organically and through acquisition. We have witnessed growth into new and existing market segments by nurturing our business partnerships as we strive to deliver outstanding end-to-end services and solutions.
“The acquisition of Kyowa’s European and African distribution rights is testament to our excellent performance and project track record in our existing markets and is an essential part of the business going forward.
“Working with top tier clients including major contractors and utility providers across the UK and Ireland, we have experienced exponential growth and are ramping up our service offering across Europe to meet demand.
“With two stock and filling locations in Norway already well established we are experiencing increased demand for these patented protected solutions.
“The acquisition of Rockbags has seen our turnover rise by 40% and allowed us to expand into other countries, establishing solid product performance on multimillion-pound projects and paving the way for more work from similar schemes across Europe, Africa and beyond.
“We pride ourselves on offering an exceptional service to clients, one that we refer to as a partnership.
“We also ensure we leave a sustainable footprint in the areas we work by providing localised labour on all filling locations, as well as using locally sourced stone and minimum transport to port.”
Invest Northern Ireland director of trade and investment Anne Beggs said: “Ridgeway is a fantastic example of a local family-owned company which takes a strategic and ambitious approach to its growth locally, nationally and internationally.
“Today’s announcement is testament to our strong working relationship with Ridgeway in action.
“We have worked closely with the company to support its business growth, offering advice and support to help establish the company in the international renewable energy sector.
“Our on-going trade support will assist Ridgeway to take this deal even further and maximise export sales across Europe.
“This deal shines a spotlight on Northern Ireland’s construction sector, showcasing our strong reputation for delivering excellence and expertise combined with innovation in global markets. This is something that Stephen and his team should all be proud of.”