THE remarkable contribution made by Shannon-based Ei Electronics to the Mid West economy has been acknowledged by a presentation to mark two special anniversaries.
The company, which employs more than 700 people, recently marked 55 years of operations on the Shannon Free Zone and 30 years since it became a fully-fledged Irish company after a management buy-out under the direction of chief executive Mick Guinee.
The dual celebration was highlighted by Shannon Commercial Properties Managing Director Ray O’Driscoll who said that Ei, as the global leader in the design and manufacture of fire and carbon monoxide detectors for the residential market, was one of the region’s great success stories.
“While Ei Electronics started out life under GE, we see this as a fantastic home-grown success. 30 years-ago, its chief executive Mick Guinee recognised an opportunity to lead a management buyout of the business from GE and it has become one of the most important employers in Shannon and the wider region since.”
“Mick and his team initially set a goal of maintaining manufacturing jobs in Shannon and thirty years later it is clear that this goal has, through the hard work and commitment of everyone at Ei Electronics, been achieved. They are celebrating an anniversary on the double and I have no doubt but we will see the growth trajectory of this company continue into the future.”
Presenting Mr Guinee with a commemorative sculpture by Irish artist Liam Butler, Shannon Group Chairman, Rose Hynes, acknowledged the company’s commitment to the region.
“Ei Electronics is an integral part of the manufacturing industry here in Shannon. Under the vision and stewardship of Mick Guinee and his management team, it has become a key global player in this market and is one of Ireland’s largest indigenous electronic companies.
“The company has achieved continuous growth through the development of a stream of innovative new products manufactured in a state of the art, vertically integrated facility, and delivered to the highest customer service standards. This is very impressive by any standard. We in Shannon are all very proud of their achievements,” Ms Hynes added.
Outlining the fact that the presentation was being held in the company’s recently opened Centre of excellence, Mick Guinee said that the Ei success story was a wonderful journey over many decades.
“Our aim at the outset was to maintain valuable manufacturing jobs in Shannon, and build a successful and sustainable international business. Today, after 55 years, we are the largest employer in Shannon.
“Our recent anniversary celebrations were a great opportunity to celebrate these achievements with our local community, and pay tribute to employees, past and present.”
“Our success is a tribute to the dedication of very many people over several decades. We are particularly proud of the fact that over the years we have made a valuable contribution to our local community and this region, making it a better place to live and work for the current and future generations.”
by Tom McCullough
