A COUNTY Durham company that invented a revolutionary farm building has attracted export orders worth almost £1m.

Now Roundhouse Building Solutions – part of the Simpson & Allinson Group, in Barnard Castle – has appointed a Dutch distributor to service the whole of Europe and may now look to the American market.

The company introduced its innovative circular Roundhouse livestock building seven years ago.

Its open sides, high-tensile canvas roof with central air vent, and dedicated stockhandling system has earned it numerous awards.

Farmers have reported healthier stock because of better ventilation, better growth rates, lower stress levels – partly because the stock are more comfortable and can see all around them – and reduced veterinary bills.

After successful sales in this country, the company signed up to UK Trade & Investment’s (UKTI’s) Passport to Export programme and then its Gateway to Global Growth (G3) initiative.

It also commissioned Overseas Market Introduction Service reports to provide an in-depth view of opportunities in Germany and France.

Working closely with international trade adviser Maria Dotsch, the company has appointed its European distributor and recently celebrated the official opening of the Roundhouse Vulcan Eifel by the State Secretary of the German region of Rheinland Pfalz, Thomas Griese.

The Kordel family will use it to keep Glan cows, an old German breed that is typical of the Eifel area and which they are trying to maintain for future generations.

Simon Pelly, S&A group sales and marketing manager, said: “We’re delighted to have been involved in this project and it’s just the latest in our overseas successes, with export sales now nearing £1m.

“Working with UKTI, we have achieved sales in Holland, Germany and Belgium and have orders now for France as well as having completed other buildings in Lithuania and Denmark.

“I can honestly say that without UKTI, I am sure we wouldn’t be this far forward so soon and certainly wouldn’t be looking at going further afield, including the USA – again with UKTI’s help.”

Maria Dotsch said: “UKTI is committed to helping companies grow through international trade, and I hope Roundhouse’s success will inspire others to take up the exporting for growth challenge.”

For details of the support available, contact the North- East International Trade Hotline on 0845-050-5054 or email enquiries@uktinorth east.org.uk for details of services available.