Encirc invests £700k in Workforce Skills to support Net-Zero ambitions

Encirc is investing £700,000 in workforce development at its Derrylin facility, equipping employees with the skills needed to support future growth, technological innovation and decarbonisation.

The three-year programme, supported by £157,200 in funding from Invest NI, was announced at Stormont alongside Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald.

Part of the Vidrala group, Encirc manufactures approximately three billion glass containers annually for leading brands across the UK. The investment will focus on technical, digital and leadership development, preparing staff for emerging technologies and changing manufacturing practices.

A key element is the introduction of the One Horizon programme, a continuous professional development initiative designed to strengthen leadership capabilities and support long-term business transformation.

Training will cover artificial intelligence awareness, digital and data skills, low-carbon technologies, alternative fuels and wider professional development.

Dr Archibald said the investment would help employees develop the capabilities required to support Encirc’s ambition to achieve net-zero emissions from its glass manufacturing process by 2030.

Encirc managing director Sean Murphy said the funding would accelerate workforce development and help maintain Derrylin’s position in sustainable glass manufacturing.

Invest NI said the programme builds on previous skills-development support and will help strengthen productivity while creating opportunities for employees to progress their careers.