A BIOTECH company is bringing up to 60 new jobs to Knowsley, after relocating from Northern Ireland.
New Horizons Global has invested an initial £1.4m in setting up a new operation at the former CP Kelco site, at Knowsley Business Park.
The company’s latest project is the production of omega-vie, a natural alternative to the traditional omega-3 sourced from fish.
Omega-3 has a number of proven health benefits but declining fish stocks is decreasing its availability.
Omega-vie is derived from algae and is seen as a viable alternative.
New Horizons is aiming to supply the product to the food ingredients, pharmaceutical, animal feed and cosmetics sectors.
The firm has relocated from Belfast to Knowsley with the help of The Mersey Partnership (TMP) and Knowsley Council.
The company’s chairman, Martin Rice, said: “We became aware of the plant becoming vacant and decided it would be ideal for us.
“We then spoke to former staff of CP Kelco and we were really impressed by them. We were also very pleased with the help given to us by TMP.”
The plant will initially employ 17 staff, but Mr Rice says he hopes to have expanded this to around 60 by the middle of next year when it plans to step up production. Around 10 former CP Kelco people will be among the new employees.
Lorraine Rogers, chief executive of TMP, said: “New Horizons Global has demonstrated its commitment to Liverpool city region by making a significant investment in Knowsley.
“The Mersey Partnership has worked closely with New Horizons Global and Knowsley Council to assist the firm as it plans further investment and expansion.
“In the prevailing economic climate, this type of assistance and support is a critical part of TMP’s role as the city region’s investment agency.”
John Campbell, chief executive of New Horizons, added: “This facility and the key staff who have been re-employed are perfect for the process.
“NHG has received great support from the TMP and Knowsley Council through the process, and will continue this close relationship as the business develops.”
