His visit coincided with the announcement that Freefoam plans to expand its UK operation creating between 30 and 40 jobs in the next 2 years.Since the company opened its Northampton base in 2001, it has seen a growth in sales from £4m to last year’s £32.63 million, along with a staff increase from 18 to 90.
Aidan Harte, managing director of Freefoam, said: “We are very committed to the present location and over the last 13 years have made significant investment in additional land and buildings to create new roles in engineering, manufacturing , distribution and administrative for the local community. Being part of the Enterprise Zone has given us access to additional support which has influenced our decision to make further investment and expand our workforce.”
The minister was accompanied by elected members from Northampton Borough Council and the Northampton Waterside Enterprise Zone. Councillor David Mackintosh, leader of Northampton Borough Council, said: “Success stories like the expansion of Freefoam Plastics shows that support from local government can make a real difference to local businesses and communities. We’re delighted to have supported that success and I think the minister was suitably impressed with what Freefoam have been able to achieve”.