Forth, a renowned engineering company with three bases in Cumbria, UK, is in advanced talks to establish its first EU base in Malta. The company’s decision comes after it was approached by the Maltese Government, whose officials were impressed by Forth’s innovative solutions showcased on its social media channels.

This marks a significant expansion for Forth as it seeks to tap into new markets and strengthen its presence in the Mediterranean region.

The invitation from Malta Enterprise, the Maltese Government’s investment and business support agency, led to meetings between Forth’s Managing Director Mark Telford, Projects Director Graham Cartwright, and a delegation of Maltese officials.

During these discussions, Forth learned about the opportunities available in Malta, including subsidies aimed at attracting businesses with innovative solutions like theirs. Mr Telford, who founded Forth 25 years ago, shared his enthusiasm for the prospect of expanding to Malta.

“Malta is small – but it packs a massive punch when it comes to ambition, foresight, and a willingness to make things happen,” said Mr Telford. His remarks reflect the positive impression the company has of the island’s business environment, which is characterised by a commitment to growth and the development of high-value industries.

As part of the decision-making process, Forth’s leadership team explored Malta’s economic strengths, including its strategic location in the Mediterranean, a multilingual workforce, and a thriving economy that supports sectors such as finance, ICT, and manufacturing. Malta’s economy is considered advanced by the International Monetary Fund, with a GDP per capita of $41,738, making it an attractive destination for foreign investment.

Forth’s expansion into Malta is expected to play a significant role in the company’s wider growth ambitions. Known for providing bespoke engineering solutions, Forth serves industries such as nuclear, oil and gas, and renewables.

Its expertise in areas such as nuclear decommissioning, deep-water recovery, inspection services, and renewable energy positions the company well to make a positive impact on the local economy and contribute to the global engineering community.

The company is currently in the legal and financial due diligence stage, with plans to establish Forth Malta Ltd as a legal entity by summer. Once finalised, the next steps will include recruiting a managing director to oversee operations, along with an initial team of up to four employees.

Mr Telford envisions a collaborative approach where both Cumbria and Malta-based colleagues will work together, strengthening the company’s culture of innovation and teamwork. Forth also plans to introduce a unique ‘portal’ system that streams live footage between the two locations.

“Forth’s expansion into Malta represents an exciting opportunity to take our innovative approach to engineering and sustainable employment model into a new market,” said Mr Telford. “Malta is an ideal location for us, and we are excited to make a meaningful contribution to the country’s economic development.”

With major international companies already operating in Malta, such as Playmobil, STMicroelectronics, and Lufthansa Technik, Forth’s entry into the market aligns with the island’s ongoing efforts to attract foreign businesses and strengthen its position as a hub for innovation and industry.