The 9th of April marked an important day for Laois as Greenfield Global Inc. Announced its plans to develop a new EU manufacturing headquarters in Portlaoise, Ireland. The company are Canada’s largest producer of alcohol, fuel ethanol and solvents.
Greenfield which is based in Toronto has extensive operations in 12 locations across North America, and provides a variety of pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, life science, personal care, food, fragrance products to over 50 countries.
This new IDA supported project will see Greenfield construct a 3,800 sqm manufacturing HQ on the IDA Business and Technology Park in Portlaoise. The site is expected to be operational by quarter 2 2020 generating approximately 100 jobs during the construction phase.
Once operational the new plant will create 75 high quality jobs over the next five year. The new roles will be in a variety of operations; production, quality, supply-chain, and sales positions.
Speaking at the announcement yesterday Greenfield President and CEO, Howard Field said:
“Our commitment to building a world-class GMP manufacturing facility in Portlaoise is our first foray into manufacturing outside of North America. This facility will ensure we have the capacity to meet increased demand from our life science customers throughout Europe and the region. Greenfield is an ambitious company, focused on continually investing in innovation, our people, and our products. We are proud to have this opportunity to expand our operations and become a part of Ireland`s economic success.”
Welcoming the announcement Minster for Justice and Equality Charlie Flanagan said:
“This is an important day for Portlaoise and the Midlands. The economic growth of our regions through the creation of sustainable jobs is a priority for Government and I am delighted to see this level of investment. The significant number of jobs being created here today is a very welcome boost to the economy of Portlaoise and I want to thank the IDA for all they did to secure them. Most of all however, I want to congratulate Greenfield Global. I look forward to their success, and indeed growth, here in Portlaoise.”
CEO of the IDA, Martin Shanahan highlighted the benefits to the Midlands region stating:
“This is a most welcome announcement for Portlaoise and the entire Midlands region and one which will considerably benefit the economy of the region. Greenfield Global is a welcome addition to the EIT [engineering and industrial technology] sector here and will be an important support to the strong and growing life sciences ecosystem in Ireland, providing locally sourced, critical raw materials. I wish Greenfield Global every success with their plans. It is great to see further investment coming into Portlaoise.”
Speaking at the announcement yesterday Councillor John King, Cathaoirleach of Laois County Council said:
“It is great news for Portlaoise, for County Laois and the wider Midlands Region. Greenfield Global has made a serious commitment to the town and region with this major investment. These 75 new jobs being created will allow more people to work in their own town and county, something which is so important for a sustainable and balanced community and regional development. I would like to thank Greenfield Global for choosing Portlaoise and wish them all the very best.”
Find out more about Greenfield Global by visiting their website, www.greenfield.com
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