Jobseekers were queuing when a fast-growing car parts firm opened the doors to a recruitment event that aimed to fill 50 new roles.

More than 100 hopefuls, including professionals, graduates and would-be apprentices, attended the event organised by Automotive Distributors Ltd (ADL), the specialist automotive parts company based at Marden.

The event at the Hilton Maidstone was part of the company’s expansion plans and search for 50 people to join its 220-strong workforce by the end of the year.

Julie Pierce, human resources director, said: “When the doors opened at 4pm there was already a queue and we were delighted with the response.

“We have received in excess of 70 CVs and the prospect of more applications coming in next week. Interest in our new apprenticeship scheme was also very positive, and we also met a number of recent graduates, all keen to get that important first step on the jobs ladder.

“As a company we place great emphasis on team work, and it was great to see so many enthusiastic people at the event, some of whom I’m sure will be great recruits.”

Vacancies on offer included jobs in a range of professional office-based roles and logistics. The company, recognised as an Investor in People, recently launched an apprenticeship scheme with current vacancies in the areas of logistics, supply chain, product development and quality control.

Mark Northeast, ADL’s managing director, said: “Over the last 18 months we’ve seen tremendous growth, we now export to 50 countries and will sell more than 10 million car parts this year under the Blue Print brand.

“We are incredibly optimistic about the future, but recognise that if we are to continue our success and enter new international markets, we will need to add to our already highly talented team. We are planning to recruit 50 new people this year and an additional 100 over the next three years.”