Independent Irish Health Foods Ltd officially opened its new facility in the Údarás Na Gaeltachta Business Park in Baile Bhuirne, Co. Cork on Saturday 20 March. The company started its business in Farranfore, Co. Kerry in 2008 and its emergent success meant that a larger and more modern facility was required to accommodate the company’s plans for growth. The company’s directors, Richard Wilkins and Henry Bartlett, now plan to further upscale operations into production, adding another potential 15 employees onto the current 47 members of staff.
Speaking at the opening, director Richard Wilkins spoke of the success the company has experienced since 2008. “The health food market is growing at a rapid rate in this country and Independent Irish Health Foods is expanding in order to meet market demands. We currently supply the majority of Ireland’s health shops and will be developing the operation by moving into production as well as focussing on growing our distribution business. This new facility, provided by Údarás na Gaeltachta, has allowed us to undertake our expansion plans and the increased capacity it provides will ensure that our business can grow into the future. The market is extremely competitive, and this move will enable us to enhance our reputation as a very innovative company in the sector.”
Pádraig Ó hAoláin, CEO of Údarás na Gaeltachta, said that he was delighted that Údarás na Gaeltachta were able to facilitate and support Independent Irish Health Foods expansion plans. He said that “The company’s requirements were clear – suitable business accommodation and appropriate infrastructure – and the Múscraí Gaeltacht had exactly that to offer. When businesses around the country are facing tremendous challenges, it is encouraging to see a business which is continuing to grow and move ahead with its expansion plans.”