WELLINGTON-based Swallowfield plc is bucking the current economic downturn and predicting further growth in the New Year.

The company, which makes cosmetics, toiletries and household goods, has just paid its 330 employees in Wellington their annual bonus.

Now, chief executive Ian Mackinnon has told the WWN the company's growing international presence will create new business opportunities in 2009.

The good news from Swallowfield will provide extra Christams cheer for the families of Swallowfield workers.

See this week's WWN for the full story.