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A Northern Ireland craft beer firm is investing £100,000 in an expansion drive so they can send their ales as far away as China.

Enterprise, Trade and Investment Minister Jonathan Bell has announced that the Farmageddon Brewery is spending the money as part of a two-year expansion plan.

The Comber-based real ale firm makes a range of ales including India Pale Ales and stouts and is well known to local quality beer lovers.

Speaking after a visit to the brewery Mr Bell described Farmageddon as “an exciting young business committed to making the most of the growing popularity for craft beer across a range of international markets”.

He added: “The investment in new equipment, marketing and job creation is welcome news for Ards and North Down creating new employment opportunities in the region.

“Invest Northern Ireland has offered £16,500 to support Farmageddon’s development strategy which include market visits, attending trade shows and recruiting four new jobs over the next two years. These activities will enable the company to expand its product range and raise awareness of its products in its target markets.

“The continued expansion of this brewery, producing locally made hand crafted beers, is a positive development for our food and drink sector. It is pleasing to see so many local producers succeeding in this growth market. 2016 has been designated the Northern Ireland Year of Food and Drink which will see a year-long celebration of the great taste of our food and drink.

(Image: Simon Graham/Harrison Photography.)

"The initiative aims to promote Northern Ireland globally as a top food destination and each month has a special theme with April the turn of our brewing and distilling industry.”

Susan Jackson from Farmageddon said their aim over the next two years is to “increase awareness among potential new customers by carrying out market visits and attending trade shows such as the Craft Beer Rising festival in February”.

She added: “This investment is an important milestone in our development. Invest NI’s assistance is enabling us to implement these growth plans and explore new business opportunities in markets such as China and Mexico.

“We aim to capitalise on the growing interest in craft beer and leverage our enhanced capabilities and resources to secure new sales outside Northern Ireland.”

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