SHOWER manufacturer Roman has increased its overseas sales by 160 per cent in the past year following a big export drive.

The company, based at Newton Aycliffe, County Durham, said overseas sales last month were stronger than any other division in the company - thanks in part to construction projects in the Middle East.

Over the year as a whole, exports have accounted for about ten per cent of the company's revenue.

Roman hopes to increase export sales even more by tapping into the potentially lucrative US market.

Export manager Gillian Richardson said: "We have had our best year yet, and we are now selling Roman shower products in 16 different countries throughout the world.

"The highlights of our overseas sales last year were winning substantial business in Portugal, Poland, Qatar and Nigeria.

"Canada continues to be our largest customer, closely followed by Austria.

"We are particularly pleased that we are selling to new customers in Greece, Bulgaria, Spain, Cyprus and the United Arab Emirates.

"Large-scale construction projects for apartments and hotels in the Middle East are now offering us some huge volume opportunities."

She said the news helped secure the 200-strong workforce at the Newton Aycliffe factory, and at Roman's distribution centre in Daventry, Northamptonshire."

Roman has enjoyed massive sales growth despite the fact the shower market is particularly competitive - not only in the UK but also in foreign markets.

Ms Richardson said: "One of the main reasons for our success is the company's ability to deliver promptly to our customers overseas.

"From the date that the order is received, we can make the product within the week and then despatch it quickly."