Production milestone set by Irish panel producer

Production volumes at Coillte Panel Products' plants have now exceeded 11 million m³ .

The company says its Medite Europe factory in Clonmel has produced 7 million m³ since its launch in 1983, while its SmartPly OSB plant in Waterford, which opened in 1996, has produced 4 million m³.

The estimated value of the production is £2.5bn, with about 90% of this exported.

“These businesses have come through a difficult period since the collapse in the Irish construction sector but with a focus on innovation and customer service and a renewed emphasis on export markets we have turned them around,” said Gerry Britchfield, Coillte Panel Products managing director.

Mr Britchfield said the company was finding new markets for its products, helping to secure more than 500 jobs both directly at its plants and indirectly with companies it does business with in Ireland.