Building materials supplier proposes big change for its Kildare branch
The company has announced a proposal to focus on the manufacturing facility’s core activity of fibre cement
A multinational building materials supplier has proposed a big change for its County Kildare branch.
Etex Ireland has today announced its intention to focus on its Athy manufacturing facility’s core activity of fibre cement, and to also cease metal forming operations.
The company further said that this proposal has been presented to both employee representatives and workers, and emphasised that it will be subject to a consultation process.
‘HIGHLY COMPETITIVE’
Etex Ireland explained that the proposal follows ‘a comprehensive review’ of the metal business.
It elaborated: “Market conditions are highly competitive, with sustained margin pressure and limited opportunities for differentiation in a very difficult construction environment.
“In addition, significant investment would be required to maintain and upgrade the metal operation that cannot be supported by a sustainable long-term business case for this activity.”
The company continued: “The proposal relates exclusively to the metal forming operations and is part of a broader strategy to strengthen the Athy site's long-term competitiveness by focusing on its core fibre cement slate manufacturing activities.
“Etex Ireland will retain a significant presence in Athy, with slate production remaining at the heart of the site's future, supported by a continued focus on operational performance, market position, future growth, and ongoing investment.”
POTENTIAL PRODUCTION END DATE
Furthermore, Etex Ireland revealed that if the proposal proceeds, the Athy metal forming operations would be wound down ‘through a controlled and phased transition’, with a planned production end date of Friday, December 18, 2026.
“The final impact will be subject to the consultation process; the management will now begin a formal consultation process with employees and union representatives,” Etex Ireland added. “The company will continue to work closely with union representatives and other stakeholders throughout the process.”
The company also maintained that it is ‘committed to supporting all potentially affected employees and managing the process in a responsible, transparent, and respectful manner’.
Lastly, Etex Ireland said: “The company will work closely with employee representatives throughout the consultation process to explore redeployment opportunities at Athy and across the wider Etex group business, including suitable vacancies, skills matching and training where feasible; Etex Ireland will also provide career transition support, training, and job-search activities.”
The company notably made headlines back in June when Athy GFC announced it as the new title sponsor for its home venue.
The club’s grounds is now officially known as Etex Geraldine Park.
According to its official website, Etex Ireland also has branches in countries such as France, Germany, the United States, Spain and Japan.