FIVE new jobs have been created at an Aire company which has invested £250,000 expanding its hydraulics distribution centre.

Advanced Component Technology Ltd at Silsden is using the extra space to expand its existing distribution centre services for Kawasaki hydraulics equipment .

The extension to the 2013 premises was officially opened by Keighley and Ilkley MP Kris Hopkins .

It includes an innovative, space-saving, slimline shelving system and bespoke forklift truck which can navigate the tight spaces between shelves.

The distribution centre is now home to £500,000 of Kawasaki products for distribution to hydraulic system and machinery manufacturers .

Kris Hopkins MP, who was joined at the launch of the new facilities by Kawasaki’s European sales director, Scott Ikuma, said: “I’m incredibly proud to see such a growing international business here in Silsden and am delighted to see it moving forward in leaps and bounds after the visit from George Osborne last year.

"The creation of five full time jobs is a very positive development for the local community and provides another boost to the wider economy which continues to thrive.”

Scott added: "Kawasaki Precision Machinery was very pleased to appoint Advanced Component Technology as our hub distributor for the UK in 2013 and the new site shows that we are continuing to grow together and expand into new markets”

The launch was attended by customers, suppliers and other local partners .

Stephen Lund ,Advanced Component Technology director, said the latest investment demonstrated the company’s commitment to Kawasaki .

The site expansion will allow ACT to target new and current markets, including power generation, renewable energy, offshore and marine.

Stephen Lund said: “Our relationship with Kawasaki has gone from strength to strength and is an integral part of our business. We have invested in the new site to house more Kawasaki products to support the UK. We are already seeing new business opportunities as a result of the investment.”

Advanced Component Technology is part of the Advanced Actuators business which moved from 3,000 sq ft premises in the centre of Bradford to the original 17,000 sq ft purpose-built building in Silsden after out-growing its previous premises.

The premises were officially opened in 2012 by the then Lord Mayor of London, Bradford-born Sir David Wootton.

Advanced Actuators supplies customers in key overseas markets, including India, the MiddleEeast and Far East. and has a turnover of around £4 million and more than 30 employees.