Shannon-based Smithstown Light Engineering marks 50 years in business

Smithstown Light Engineering, a second-generation indigenous Irish firm, is marking five decades of manufacturing excellence and growth in Shannon since it was founded in 1974 by Brian King.

Starting with a modest team of four skilled toolmakers, today, the company employs over 240 people at its two plants in Smithstown Industrial Estate, Shannon, and its facility in Rzeszów, Poland.

The Shannon company serves some of the top medical device and orthopaedic companies worldwide.

The company's commitment to cutting-edge technologies and continuous improvement has enabled it to meet the growing demand for ultra-precision medical device components and orthopaedic implants used in lifesaving treatments.

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Speaking at the company's 50th anniversary celebration in the Radisson Hotel, Founder and Chairman of Smithstown Light Engineering, Brian King, said "Our journey from a small parts production company to a global leader in advanced manufacturing for the MedTech sector is testament to our dedicated team, our commitment to quality and innovation, and the support of our clients and the local community."

Key milestones in the company's recent history include:
  2017: Opening of a second manufacturing site in Shannon, adding 10,000 sq ft
  2019: Expansion of the second manufacturing site by an additional 30,000 sq ft.
  2020: Launch of the third manufacturing facility in Rzeszów, Poland, enhancing Smithstown's global footprint.
  2021: Introduction of Smithstown Additive, where the entire additive manufacturing technology process for clients comes under one roof.

Looking to what's next, Gerard Henn, CEO, Smithstown Light Engineering, said “With further growth on the horizon, we look forward to continuing our legacy of excellence and innovation in the years to come, contributing to the local economy and the global MedTech industry.”