Cunningham Covers was delighted to welcome HRH The Duke of Gloucester to its Maghera headquarters on Thursday 5th November 2026, where His Royal Highness officially opened the company’s new 18,000 sq ft factory extension, marking another significant milestone in the company’s continued growth and international success.
The visit was a proud occasion for the entire Cunningham Covers team, celebrating both the company’s manufacturing heritage in Mid Ulster and its growing reputation as a leading manufacturer of Clever Protective Covers for customers around the world.
Investing in the Future of Manufacturing
The new 18,000 sq ft extension represents a significant investment in the company’s future, providing additional manufacturing space specifically designed to accommodate larger and more technically demanding projects.
The expansion will further strengthen Cunningham Covers’ ability to deliver large-scale protective solutions for industries including Aviation, Aquaculture and Oil & Gas, where specialist materials, precision engineering and innovative design are essential.
With demand continuing to grow for bespoke protective solutions, the additional space will allow the company to take on increasingly complex international contracts while maintaining its commitment to manufacturing in Mid Ulster.
From a Local Family Business to a Global Manufacturer
Founded in 1969 by Gordon Cunningham, the company began as a small family business manufacturing protective covers for a local trailer manufacturer. More than five decades later, Cunningham Covers has developed into an internationally recognised manufacturer, supplying innovative protective solutions to customers across six continents and exporting to over 40 countries worldwide.
From protecting valuable aviation equipment and offshore assets to manufacturing specialist products for the aquaculture and defence industries, Cunningham Covers has built its reputation on solving challenging problems through clever design and manufacturing expertise.
Its products can be found in some of the world’s most demanding environments, from the extreme heat of the Middle East and Africa to the freezing conditions of Antarctica.
The company’s international success has previously been recognised with the prestigious Queen’s Award for Enterprise in International Trade, reflecting its achievements in developing overseas markets and bringing Northern Ireland manufacturing expertise to customers around the globe.
A Proud Day for Cunningham Covers
During the visit, HRH The Duke of Gloucester was welcomed by Managing Director David Cunningham, alongside staff and local representatives, to celebrate the official opening of the new facility.
David Cunningham, Managing Director, commented:
“This is a proud day for everyone at Cunningham Covers. As President of British Expertise International, which helps UK companies win business overseas, HRH The Duke of Gloucester has long championed British enterprise worldwide, and we’re delighted to show him how Cunningham Covers is part of that story.
“The new factory is an investment in our team, our customers and the local community. It gives us the space and capabilities to continue growing, take on larger international projects and strengthen our position in the global marketplace.
“We are incredibly proud of our roots here in Mid Ulster, and it’s thanks to the hard work, skill and dedication of our team that we can continue to compete and succeed on the world stage.”
Clever Protective Covers, Manufactured in Mid Ulster
At the heart of Cunningham Covers’ success is its ability to design and manufacture bespoke protective solutions for an exceptionally diverse range of applications.
From everyday tarpaulins, transport covers and garden products to highly specialised industrial solutions, the company combines decades of experience with modern manufacturing technology to meet the individual requirements of its customers.
This commitment to innovation, quality and customer service continues to drive the business forward.
Looking Ahead
The official opening of the new factory extension marks another important chapter in the Cunningham Covers story.
While its products continue to reach customers across the globe, the company’s foundations remain firmly rooted in Maghera, where its skilled team continues to design, manufacture and ship protective solutions to international markets.
With increased manufacturing capacity and a continued focus on innovation, Cunningham Covers is well positioned to pursue its long-term vision of becoming the world’s leading manufacturer of Clever Protective Covers.
Manufactured in Mid Ulster. Shipped Globally. Clever Protective Covers.
