A DARWEN firm is expanding across the Atlantic with a multi-million pound investment.

Speciality Coatings is setting up a new wallcoverings coating plant in Martinsville, Virginia.

The factory, which will cost around £5 million, is expected to be open later this summer.

It will help service the North American market where Speciality Coatings already has a site in Canada.

Speciality Coatings is a world leader in producing the vinyl base on which wallpaper manufacturers print.

"The plant is a key strategic element within our corporate plan and will help us maintain an enviable record for maximising profits from niche markets on a world wide scale," said Ian Knighton, the Darwen based chairman of the division.

The Virginia plant will be equipped with the latest manufacturing equipment include an Emerson & Renwick coating machine manufactured in Church.

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