PORTADOWN-based The Deluxe Group has secured two substantial contracts with a world renowned theme park in Paris worth over 2.5 million Euros.
It follows research and development (R&D) support from Invest Northern Ireland, which made the announcement today (Wednesday).
The Deluxe Group is a bespoke joinery firm which specialises in luxury fit out. The contract – commencing in February – will see Deluxe carry out the installation of themed finishes to the interiors of a new flagship ride and restaurant at the Paris theme park.
The majority of the detailed design development and manufacturing will take place at their head office and workshop in Portadown, before being shipped to Paris for installation.
Invest NI offered £91,000 of support, including part funding from the European Regional Development Fund, towards a £227,500 investment in research by Deluxe.
Following a lengthy bid process, Deluxe won the two theme park contracts against stiff competition from companies throughout Europe.
Managing Director Colm O’Farrell commented: “We are very grateful to Invest NI for providing key funding on an R&D project which eventually led us towards this prestigious contract. Without their funding we would not have been able to pursue various avenues that the R&D project opened up for us which we feel gave us an edge over our competition.”
Alastair Hamilton, Chief Executive of Invest NI, said: “The impact of the downturn on local construction companies has been well documented and it remains vital for the sector to innovate if they are to maximise business opportunities.
“Deluxe has fully embraced R&D and used it effectively to develop new manufacturing techniques and new products, so it can compete in the high value luxury design and fit out market. It is very positive to see how this has allowed Deluxe to diversify and seek out significant business opportunities in new markets, particularly Europe, and set a firm foundation for future growth.”
Corin Hawthorne, Head of Business Development at The Deluxe Group, added: “These prestigious contracts provide a strong base for our continued growth, and demonstrate our effectiveness in providing quality, imagination and value against strong international competition.
“We are delighted to be involved in this flagship project and hope to develop our initial contracts into an ongoing relationship with our client.”
In addition to the themed finishes to the new ride, Deluxe will also manufacture key features for the new restaurant using a specialist solid surfacing material called LG Hi-Macs.
Deluxe has invested heavily in new technology over the last 12 months to provide a full suite of solid surfacing equipment, including a large thermoforming oven and heated vacuum press which, in conjunction with their advanced computerised sculpting tool, means they can provide highly accurate three dimensional forms.
The Deluxe Group has also recently completed high profile works in Central London, providing bespoke joinery to a range of projects, including the new Royal Suite at The Intercontinental Hotel on Mayfair’s Park Lane, the new luxury Equinox Gym in Kensington, and high-end retailers including Harrods, Harvey Nichols and Selfridges.
