A gala event has been held to celebrate the 50th anniversary of engineering firm Sulzer.

Since starting operations in 1973, the Wexford manufacturing site has used extensive research and development, and world-class manufacturing, to create industry-leading products in terms of efficiency and reliability. To honour the dedication and commitment of the entire workforce, Sulzer organised a celebration that included presentations from senior executives as well as a video message from Simon Coveney, who has championed the plant in winning investment through the Industrial Development Agency (IDA) of Ireland.

Minister for Enterprise Trade & Employment, Simon Coveney TD said: "Congratulations to the Sulzer team as you celebrate 50 years in operation here in Ireland. It's a great endorsement of our country that a leading global company such as yours has chosen Ireland to do business for all those years. I understand the Wexford site has been operational since 1973 and in that time has created hundreds of valuable jobs for Wexford. I wish to congratulate Sulzer on your valuable contribution and long standing commitment to Ireland."

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With around 280 employees today, the site is a centre of engineering excellence and includes research and development (R&D) as well as manufacturing and testing facilities. As the major employer in the town, it has a very family-orientated feel and there is no shortage of young people wanting to join the company. In fact, some families have three generations working at the site while many others have following parents and siblings into fulfilling roles within the company.

During the celebration, there was also recognition for a number of long-serving employees, including team leader, Larry Roche, who has worked at Wexford for 47 years. In fact, over 70 members of staff have more than 30 years' experience at the manufacturing site, demonstrating the loyalty and depth of expertise that are retained in the business.

Employees at the plant have always looked to adopt new, more efficient processes that help to optimise production, reduce our environmental footprint, and keep the company at the head of the field.

Brendan Sinnott, Managing Director at Sulzer's Wexford plant, commented: "We have developed market-leading products that are exported around the world, all thanks to our outstanding workforce and great support from the IDA. The dedication of our staff ensures that we can design and manufacture cutting-edge products that offer our customers superior efficiency and reliability. Together, we have led the way in lean manufacturing in Ireland and developed some of the most efficient products in the market."

Mary Buckley, Interim CEO, IDA Ireland added: "IDA Ireland has had a close working relationship with Sulzer since the company first established in the South East, providing a wide range of supports, particularly around its research and development agenda.

"So, we are delighted to join you in celebrating this significant milestone – 50 years, of employment in Wexford. IDA Ireland remains committed to winning and supporting jobs and investment in regional locations and we look forward to continuing our longstanding partnership with Sulzer. 

"I wish the Sulzer team continued success."