This investment is part of a broader €28 million investment by Kepak across Irish sites, €8m of which was supported through the Government’s Capital Investment Scheme (CIS) for the Processing and Marketing of Agricultural Products, administered by Enterprise Ireland.
Kepak Kilbeggan employs 86 people in the midlands and west of Ireland and is a significant contributor to the local economy, investing an estimated €110m annually. Kepak’s economic contribution is made up of approximately €3m in wages, €2m in additional support services and €105m in livestock purchases through the creation of jobs, use of local services providers, and support of local famers.
An event to officially mark the investment at the site was attended by Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Peter Burke, and Minister for Agriculture, Food and Marine, Charlie McConalogue, today (Thursday 3rd October).
Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Peter Burke said: “I wish to congratulate Kepak on its new, upgraded state-of-the-art facility at Kilbeggan, a strategic investment which was supported by the Government’s Capital Investment Scheme. The upgraded facility is a significant milestone in Kepak’s impressive business journey and will empower it to continue to grow globally, while making a local impact as a key employer in the Westmeath and Longford region. I look forward to tracking Kepak’s continued success and commend its commitment to growing sustainably.
Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine of Ireland, Charlie McConalogue, stated: “This investment by Kepak is a prime example of the Government’s Capital Investment Scheme in action. The Scheme, which is co-funded by my Department, shows the Government’s commitment to supporting the agri-food sector including through initiatives that enable companies such as Kepak to advance their sustainability credentials and grow their export markets. Increasing the value of exports and diversifying markets are key elements of our shared Agrifood 2023 strategy. I would like to congratulate Kepak on the Kilbeggan investment and wish them every success for the future.”
Simon Walker, Kepak CEO, commented: “This investment in Kepak Kilbeggan reinforces our commitment to the Agri community and to sustainable growth. By enhancing our facilities, we’re ensuring market diversification, export growth, and long-term business development for Kepak. This upgraded site positions us as a key hub for showcasing premium-quality Irish meat on the world stage, while supporting the local economy. Sustainability is central to this investment. With significant improvements in energy efficiency, water usage, and environmental impact, we are advancing our goal of a sustainable farming future. Our partnerships with farmers, customers, and colleagues are the backbone of our success, and we’re proud to continue leading in both innovation and environmental stewardship.”
Jenny Melia, Executive Director, Enterprise Ireland said; “Enterprise Ireland is committed to supporting companies like Kepak to continue to grow and scale, and to support job growth and expand in a sustainable manner. We believe that Irish-owned enterprises can, over time, be the prime driver of the Irish economy, and companies like Kepak will play an important role in realising that ambition. Enterprise Ireland is proud to support this new facility at Kepak Kilbeggan under the 2021 Capital Investment Scheme, which aims to build the resilience of the Irish agri-food sector. On behalf of Enterprise Ireland, I would congratulate Kepak for their agility and innovation, with the aim of driving export growth and job creation and wish them every future success.”