Profile
There are in excess of 250 oil distribution companies based in Northern Ireland, most of which are small independent companies.
225
polymer companies operate in Northern Ireland. The polymers sector is very active in the province, as illustrated by the Polymers Research Unit based at Queen’s University in Belfast which has been developing and building on latest technology within the industry for a number of years.
Skills Trends
The Cogent industries in Northern Ireland face the issues of ageing workforces coupled with difficulties in recruiting young people as well as highly skilled managers, engineers and technicians.
The polymer industry faces tough challenges from foreign competition but manages to keep ahead due to its commitment to training and development.