The investment, supported by the Irish government through Enterprise Ireland, will enable the firm to develop new products, increase exports and boost output to meet rising demand for its range of cooked hams, sausages, bacon rashers and meat puddings.
Bill O’Brien, md of O’Brien Fine Foods, said: “We want to be known as a growing, successful Irish food company and a large indigenous employer. The long-term expansion plans of the business are to further develop our presence in Ireland, coupled with particular growth in our exports.”
‘Recruitment for the new roles’
Recruitment for the new roles had already begun and will bring staff levels at the business to more than 275 over the next three years.
O’Brien added: “We are delighted to announce the creation of these jobs within the company and local community. We have always endeavored to support the local Irish economy and especially the rural economy, through continuing to source only Irish pork.”
The business is the largest family-owned cooked meats producer in Ireland and the only large cooked meats company to source only pork approved by the Irish Food Board Bord Bia.
The Irish minister for jobs, enterprise and innovation, Richard Bruton, welcomed the new jobs and the plan to boost exports.
“Growing our food exports is a central part of the government’s action plan for jobs,” said Bruton. “Indigenous companies like this, with their focus on innovation and exports, are a particular priority for the government, as we seek to create the jobs we need.”
He praised O’Brien Fine Foods for being highly innovative company and the leadership of the management team.
Michael Cantwell, Enterprise Ireland’s food division manager, claimed the investment underpinned the country’s standing as a leader in the international food industry and helped to grow the nation’s exports.
'International growth'
“Enterprise Ireland has worked closely with O’Brien in supporting its strategic investment and development to drive continued international growth,” said Cantwell.
“We look forward to working with this exciting company as they embark on this ambitious expansion plan while growing and developing their international sales – sustaining and creating jobs in Ireland.”
The project was supported by the Department of Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation through Enterprise Ireland.
Formed in 1978, the firm supplies premium quality cooked hams and breakfast meats under the Brady Family and Rudds brands.
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