AN INTERNATIONAL company based in Clitheroe is moving its manufacturing back to the town, creating nine jobs.

The Printed Cup Company, in Salt Hill Industrial Estate, is bringing its manufacturing back from China after a rise in demand for its products closer to home.

The move could see even more jobs brought to the town, as the sales and marketing teams would also need to be increased.

Mark Woodward, founder of the company, said customers were demanding a fast and reliable service, which was not possible when the cups were being made thousands of miles away.

He said that the new manufacturing unit in Clitheroe would enable short lead times for customers and ensure control through each stage of the cup manufacturing process.

Mr Woodward said: “Our growth shows that customers are looking for a fast, reliable service, delivering a quality product in small quantities and the UK is the right place to base this manufacturing plant to serve Europe.

“This is good news, especially when we are faced with other companies having to lay off staff.”

The Printed Cup Company was founded in 2005 by Mr Woodward, who led operations from his home in Clitheroe.

Since then, the company has grown from strenth to strength and has seen its turnover double in the last 12 months.

Mr Woodward said he was pleased that bringing manufacturing back to Clitheroe would also have a positive impact on the town.

He said: “We wanted to stay in the area because we like it and the people are fantastic.

“We have got quality staff and good premises and access to the town is great.”

The new site will be officially opened on April 10 by Ribble Valley MP Nigel Evans.

Mr Evans said: “It is an amzing story that at a time when we are bringing in manufactured goods from China that we now have a firm that has established a tremendous manufacturing facility here in Clitheroe.

“It is absolutely fantastic news and I congratulate Mark and the entire team in Clitheroe.”