HUNTINGDON-based top-end hi-fi manufacturer Meridian Audio, which two years ago was making employees redundant, is now looking for five new staff at its Latham Road headquarters.

The latest roles, which are based in the 35-year-old company’s manufacturing and commercial divisions, have become necessary as a result of Meridan’s enjoying a period of international growth as it opens 11 new boutiques in Asia, the

Middle East, Europe, Russia, and South America.

It is also to supply in-car entertainment systems to Range Rover models, starting with the Evoque three and five-door variants, under a new contract.

Increasing wealth in emerging markets and a growing desire for quality British manufactured products, has resulted in demand regularly outstripping production for Meridan’s systems, hence the expansion of its existing 100-strong and highly-skilled workforce, a company spokesman said.

Meridian is currently advertising for two second stage printed circuit board assemblers and two production workers, in addition to the position of marketing co-ordinator (automotive), whose responsibilities will include working in conjunction with the Jaguar Land Rover group in delivering marketing campaigns, and the creation of jointly-branded equipment.

Meridian also provides the sound systems to McLaren Automotive for its MP4-12C supercar.

Meridian Audio’s chief marketing officer, Graeme Taylor, explained: “The latest recruitment programme is in response to the ever-increasing demand for our audio and video systems from a rapidly-growing global customer base, and from an enhanced presence in the automotive industry.

“This is clearly a boost for the local area and the UK’s manufacturing sector at a time when many businesses are having to scale back their operations.”