Pictured is Maire-Claire Reid of TST Transport Group, with TUV Party Leader & North Antrim MP Jim Allister, and North Antrim MLA Timothy Gaston.
In a move highlighting the economic significance of local industries, North Antrim MP Jim Allister, alongside MLA Timothy Gaston, engaged in extensive discussions with Maire-Claire Reid of TST Transport Group this past Thursday (September 19).
The meeting underscores the important ongoing dialogue between political representatives and key employers in the area.
TST Transport Group, headquartered in Broughshane, has emerged as a significant player in the logistics sector. According to Jim Allister, the company has not only expanded its operational footprint but has also become the preferred haulier for numerous high-profile products, thanks to its innovative approach.
During the visit, Allister noted the positive developments at TST:
"It was encouraging to hear of the growth of the group and to hear of the vision going forward."
He highlighted how TST has adeptly navigated the complexities introduced by the Northern Ireland Protocol by expanding its customs expertise through TSE Customs, a subsidiary focused on customs solutions.
The transport group now employs nearly 200 individuals in Broughshane alone, contributing to local employment and economic stability.
Furthermore, TST's strategic use of the former Michelin site was praised by Allister, who remarked on the site's return to profitability, now bustling with activity from drivers and other local employees.
The expansion of TST, with depots throughout the UK, positions it well for future growth, reinforcing Mid and North Antrim's emerging status as a logistics hub. This growth is supported by the region's robust infrastructure, which facilitates such industrial developments.
Allister and Gaston's visit reflects a broader commitment by the Traditional Unionist Voice (TUV) to engage with and support local businesses that are vital to the economic fabric of North Antrim. The discussions at TST focused not just on current achievements but also on future strategies to overcome logistical challenges and capitalise on growth opportunities.
This visit marks the ongoing efforts by local political representatives to help support businesses, aiming to foster economic development and navigate the post-Brexit landscape effectively.
As TST continues to grow, its role in the local and broader UK economy looks set to become even more significant, promising further job creation and economic benefits for Ballymena and Mid and East Antrim.