AT least 40 new jobs are set to created by a distribution firm in Blackburn.

EPS Product Support has set up a site in the town after winning a five-year contract from British Aerospace at Samlesbury.

BAe is contracting out its international packaging and distribution operation to EPS and freight firm AEI which is also transferring employees to Blackburn.

The new facility will handle spares and repaired components for overseas customers.

"The choice of the new location was influenced by both the closeness to BAe Samlesbury and the excellent infrastructure provided by the new M65 motorway," said Paul Airey, EPS's managing director.

The site will take in components from BAe's sites and suppliers and check and package them before despatching them overseas.

"This development is the result of more than 18 months' dedicated planning and research involving discussions with leading packaging and transportation companies in the UK," said Peter Armer, BAe's customer support manager.

The new facility will operate round the clock and will prove overseas customers with a quicker service for spares and repairs.

The announcement is the second major opening in Blackburn announced by a distribution firm within weeks.

Bibby Distribution is also creating 40 new jobs with a development at Walker Park.

The firm will distribute products manufactured at ICI in Darwen from the site.

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