W2B-034 Technology matters 2-3.txt
Showing you can't judge by size

An Antrim company is proof if proof is needed that size isn't everything when it comes to exporting, and small companies can sell their products successfully across the world.

Fast Engineering was established in 1981 by Seamus Connolly, a chartered civil engineer, to provide a more workable solution to the problem of water storage on engineering sites.

The company produces collapsible yet portable liquid storage tanks used by relief agencies of emergency water provision and by the oil industry and fire service for environmental protection.

It has successfully identified and exploited a nice-market on a world-wide basis.

"It is important for a small company to hit the ground running, and we were very fortunate that we got endorsement from Oxfam for our tanks at an early stage," said Seamus.

With the support of LEDU, the company began to produce a range of portable liquid storage tanks which because of their simple design and ease of carriage were soon in big demand from the major relief agencies working in disaster areas around the world.

"Our Fasttank provides a flexible solution to the permanent or temporary containment of liquids. It is strong yet lightweight and when folded is compact enough to be easily transported to event the most remote locations worldwide," explained Seamus.

The company's next big break came when it was approached by BP to provide them with a tank.

"They were so delighted with the result that they are now one of our major customers."
