Wrightbus showcases remarkable turnaround to deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly

Deputy First Minister Little-Pengelly with Wrightbus CEO Jean-Marc Gales

Zero-emission bus manufacturer Wrightbus has showcased its dramatic revival and global success story to Northern Ireland’s deputy First Minister, Emma Little-Pengelly, during a visit to the company’s Ballymena headquarters.

The visit on Wednesday offered an insight into how the company has transformed from administration just six years ago into a global powerhouse of green transport innovation.

Since 2019, the business has expanded from a workforce of only 50 people to more than 2,300 employees worldwide, including 2,100 jobs in Northern Ireland.

Deputy First Minister Little-Pengelly takes the wheel, with Wrightbus CEO Jean-Marc Gales

Deputy First Minister Little-Pengelly toured the factory and met Wrightbus CEO Jean-Marc Gales, who detailed how the firm’s revenue had increased by 77% in the past year — driven by efficiency improvements and a strong global order book.

The Ballymena-based manufacturer is now at the forefront of the UK and European zero-emission transport sector, having combined cutting-edge engineering and bold investment to put Northern Ireland firmly back on the global manufacturing map.

Earlier this year, Wrightbus announced a record £25 million investment in research and development, marking the largest in its history. The funding is driving the creation of new zero-emission products, including a new coach, a 6x2 double-deck bus, and a repowered truck, with orders already confirmed across the UK, Germany, and Asia.

In recent years, the firm has earned major accolades, being named the fastest-growing bus manufacturer in the UK and Europe and the leading zero-emission bus manufacturer in the UK.

CEO Jean-Marc Gales said:

“It was a pleasure to be able to show the deputy First Minister exactly how the business has gone from strength-to-strength to become a true market leader.

“Wrightbus has become pivotal in Northern Ireland’s manufacturing economy, bringing thousands of good green skilled jobs to Ballymena, and supporting thousands more throughout the manufacturing supply chain.

“Our ambitious growth plans mean this trend will continue, with more opportunities for young people as we build the workforce of the future.”

Deputy First Minister Little-Pengelly met staff during the tour of the factory with Wrightbus CEO Jean-Marc Gales

Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly praised the company’s innovation and resilience, saying:

“I was delighted to have the opportunity to see and hear how Wrightbus has invested in research and development into zero-emission transport.

“It is a clear example of how navigating change and embracing innovation can drive productivity, support high-quality job creation, and strengthen our export performance, particularly in manufacturing.

“Wrightbus is a business that has positively transformed in recent years. It is fantastic to see a local business selling world-class products on the global stage.”

The visit underlined Wrightbus’s position as a key player in the UK’s transition to sustainable transport and as a cornerstone of Northern Ireland’s modern manufacturing success.