By Grant Prior www.constructionenquirer.com
One of the world’s largest interiors contractors has launched a UK operation based in Middlesbrough.
The move will initially create 30 new jobs as Depa bases its UK and European operations from new offices in Riverside Park.
But the United Arab Emirates-based company hopes to boost its permanent UK workforce to 150 and turnover £100m within three years,
The Depa team will specialise in full-scope fit out and furnishing projects for luxury hotels, apartments, airports, shops, yachts, theme parks and commercial premises.
The contractor is renown for completing the interior design and fit-out of famous landmarks including the world’s tallest building, the 828 metre Burj Khalifa hotel in Dubai, and the Four Seasons hotel in Sharm El Sheik, Egypt.
Depa is now aiming to expand in the European market and will use its North East base to assemble an increased workforce and a robust supply chain network for new contract wins.
Paul Austin, CEO of Depa UK, said: “We anticipate being here for the long term, we have a five year business case for the region and we are looking to do a turnover by year three upwards of £100m.
“We anticipate having in the region of 150 plus staff on the books and then you have the outsourced supply chain that will support us.
“In the skills base we will be looking for people in the construction industry, in particular interior design.
“The UK has been an important element of our future plans and we believe the time is right to establish a larger operation in the country.
“The size of the economy and vast-potential for high quality, prestigious work is very attractive to us and will allow us to further establish our credentials in the commercial, residential and hotel sectors.”
