New jobs in Northern Ireland are being created by Chemtest Ireland and Bedeck, with support from regional development agency Invest Northern Ireland.

Invest NI announced in a statement this week Chemtest Ireland, which provides specialist microbiological and asbestos testing services, plans to double its workforce, creating 15 new analyst and administration positions.

The statement adds the West Belfast-based firm is focusing on expanding its client base in Britain and the Republic of Ireland, and has recruited a business development manager to help drive forward its market development plans.

Meanwhile, a separate Invest NI statement reveals bed, bath and living brand Bedeck is launching a new lifestyle brand, Murmur, creating 14 new jobs.

The statement adds the firm is aiming to at grow its share of the UK interiors marketplace and expanding its sales into new markets internationally. 

Both firms are being offered support by Invest NI, with Chemtest offered more than £115k to support its growth efforts, including an employment grant of £90k towards the creation of 15 new jobs. Bedeck is offered £99.8k towards the marketing costs of its Murmur brand launch and to support the creation of the new jobs.