Irvine business reveals plans for further expansion

Barony Universal could create up to 100 new roles having taken on a new site in the town just months after the company was taken over by Candian firm KDC/One.

The manufacturer and marketer of personal and home care aerosols already employs more than 200 people at its Riverside Way base.

However, this could grow by a further 50 per cent after the company took on a newly finished building within the same industrial estate.

The company is hoping to facilitate this by extending the recently acquired unit with a planning application submitted to North Ayrshire Council.

Barony Universal already employ more than 200 people in Irvine (Image: Street View)

Documents supporting their proposals explained: "Following their acquisition by KDC/One in late 2025, Barony have announced major expansion plans to their business in Irvine, creating a new manufacturing facility adjacent to their current operation, to allow the production of shave gel, body wash, face cream and moisturising products.

"The relocation of certain production lines from KDC/One’s previous facility at Swallowfield in Somerset brings key product categories under one roof, strengthens supply chain reliance and enhances production facility.

"The commitment to this new facility is a significant boost to the local economy.

"Increased throughput and the relocation of production lines from Swallowfield will see the creation of up to 100 new jobs across manufacturing, engineering, quality, logistics and support functions located in both the new facility, Barony’s existing premises, and elsewhere."

Plans brought to the table by Barony Universal seek to make various changes to the existing unit it has now taken on.

As well as fitting out the site, the company is looking to build two extensions onto the building to cater for additional production space as well as a plant to host specialist equipment related to the process.

Proposals also look to create a staff amenity block and extend the existing service yard to allow for easier manoeuvring of commercial vehicles.

Documents added: "We believe the proposals are appropriate for the location and should be supported by the local authority."

Plans were submitted to North Ayrshire Council earlier this week and are currently pending consideration.

It is anticipated that a decision will be made on the application by the end of April this year.