A hundred and ten new jobs are to be created in Magherafelt, County Londonderry.

Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Investment Sir Reg Empey announced on Monday that Roll Formed Fabrications is investing �2m in an innovative new product line.

The company manufactures pre-fabricated en-suite bathrooms, and the investment will see it do this in a pod format for contractors to install directly in hotels and other large buildings.

Each cast concrete pod is fully kitted out with sanitary ware, shower and electrical connections and arrives on-site as a sealed unit.

Roll Formed believes this will increase its capability and overall ability to compete for business in export markets.

'New service'

Maureen McMullan, Managing Director of Roll Formed, said the construction industry was under pressure for faster building combined with a shortage of skilled tradesmen.

"We are essentially using our manufacturing knowledge to offer an additional product and a new service," she said.

"In an industry where time and weather play such an important part, our pod reduces the time lost on-site due to adverse weather conditions and further reduces the overall time on site."

Sir Reg said the company was one of Northern Ireland's most successful entrepreneurial businesses and the investment would "add value through volume production".

"In addition, the company intends to develop its knowledge-base by investing in marketing and new product development.

"Government support for the company reflects our overall commitment to encourage enterprising businesses to identify and exploit market opportunities outside Northern Ireland," he said.

The project is expected to provide 110 jobs over the next three years, in addition to the 48 currently employed at the Moneymore Road factory.