Based in Ballymena, Norbev, a renowned soft drinks manufacturer, has experienced a remarkable increase in turnover of over 50 per cent. This growth follows a substantial investment of nearly £300,000 in up-skilling its workforce. Established in 1919, Norbev produces beverages for esteemed clients such as Aldi, Suntory (Lucozade), Talking Rain, and Capri Sun. Impressively, the company exports 98 per cent of its products to markets beyond Northern Ireland, including Great Britain and Europe.
Managing Director of Norbev, Shona Blythe, commented on the impact of this investment: “In response to a business transformation, we recognized the importance of enhancing our staff’s skills to enhance our competitive edge. Thanks to Invest NI’s support, we have been able to develop a strong employee culture that aligns with our goals.
Furthermore, Invest NI provided one-to-one supply chain coaching, offering a fresh perspective on our current operations. This initiative helped us identify opportunities to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and boost productivity within our supply chain.
During a recent visit to Norbev, Niall Casey, Director of Skills and Competitiveness at Invest NI, expressed his thoughts: “We have been collaborating with Norbev for over 17 years to support its growth. Our recent assistance has empowered the company to elevate its workforce’s skills, driving efficiency and productivity.
Recognizing Norbev’s achievements, Des Gartland, Invest NI’s North Eastern Regional Manager, added, “It is inspiring to witness the positive impact of this investment on Norbev’s performance. This success not only benefits the local economy but also establishes the company as a valuable employer in the Mid and East Antrim region.”
