German toymaker Playmobil is riding over the financial crisis and plans to invest €11 million over the next two years, extending its plant by 5,000 square metres and employing a further 80 workers.

Speaking during a visit by Finance Minister Tonio Fenech yesterday, Playmobil CEO Helga Ellul said the German parent company had chosen the Malta plant in Ħal Far for the production of high-end parts for its toys.

Ms Ellul said the company, which employs 800 workers, would increase its workforce as new machines were purchased for the new line. The machines include laser printers and silicone moulds.

"The head office has recognised the skills of the Maltese workers, who are keen to learn and adapt," she said, adding that the company invested €50,000 a year in training.

Playmobil operates 24-hours a day, including Saturdays and Sundays. She said the company had adapted itself to changing times and increased competition.

The group came to Malta in 1971 and had since invested €120 million here. Mr Fenech said Malta was an attractive investment destination because of the skills of its workers. He said the company, in collaboration with Malta Enterprise and the Malta Industrial Parks Ltd, was expanding its operations here.

He said the Brandstätter Group had 15 subcontracted companies employing a total of 250 workers.