Newry firm FM Environmental has secured a deal in Mexico worth £750k with the support of Invest NI. The company based at Greenbank Industrial Estate specializes in grease removal and water treatment systems. The deal means it will now supply US grocery giant Waltmart with equipment for its restaurants in Mexico. The Grease Guardian fat removal equipment will be supplied to around 200 in-store restaurants at Waltmart, the world’s biggest retailer. Company marketing director Eamon Fitzpatrick said: “Winning this business from such a prestigious company as Waltmart is tremendously encouraging and it will be of enormous benefit to us as we seek to grow our business in North America, now a key market for us. It’s a market with huge potential for our Grease Guardian Equipment because of the scale of the fast food business, particularly in the US. We are focusing significant resources there to develop opportunities that we have already identified” Mr Fitzpatrick said growing success in international markets has helped the company achieve 20 per cent growth annually over the past few years. “Invest NI’s encouragement and practical support particularly through the international visit programme have been immensely important and has enabled us to position the business for further growth in the US, Europe and Middle East.,” he added. Dr Vicky Kell, Invest NI trade director described the deal as “extremely important” for the company – ” which continues to demonstrate to business growth in markets outside Northern Ireland. We’ve worked closely with FM Environmental on the development and implementation of international marketing plans through trade missions and participation in targeted exhibitions with its successful Grease Guardian machinery. The company has developed a structured approach approach to its international business involving extensive market research to pinpoint opportunities. Its success is also based on fast response to initial leads supported by excellent customer service. This responsive engagement is a key requirement for successful exporting an d is something many companies neglect,” Dr Kell added. Founded 35 years ago FM Environmental has used assistance from Invest NI to develop its global marketing has participated in the agency’s international business programme. The company currently exports sports equipment to over 30 markets including the US, Great Britain, France and Russia.
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