Irish safety clothing and personal protective equipment manufacturer Portwest is investing $10 million in its Australian operations as it looks to expand Down Under.

Announced at the launch of a new warehousing facility in Melbourne on Tuesday, the investment will enable the company to increase its Australia workforce over the next four years and thereby increase sales.

The move comes off the back of Portwest’s acquisition of two major Australian companies: Prime Mover in 2017 and Huski Explorer earlier this year.

Portwest expects its investment and acquisitions to help to double its turnover in Australia and further consolidate its position as the fastest growing workwear company in the world.

“Our vision for the company is clear, by selling more products in more countries through more sales people selling to more customers, Portwest will continue its strong growth,” said Harry Hughes, Portwest CEO.

“Our sights are firmly fixed on our new markets of Australia and the US where further investments in warehousing, staff and an outstanding pipeline of new designs and innovations will drive this growth,” Hughes said.

The Portwest brand is sold in over 130 countries worldwide and global turnover is expected to rise 25 per cent this year. Similar investments in other markets are anticipated, as Portwest targets global expansion.

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