Kildare-based Cedral Ireland, part of the Etex group, marked a milestone event this October. Cedral employees and their families, customers and members of Kildare GAA and the wider Kildare community gathered together to mark the official reopening of Cedral St Conleth’s Park, home of Kildare GAA, marking a new chapter in the company’s county support.

Cedral, which is known to many by its former name Tegral, sponsored Kildare GAA for almost two decades up until 2013, so it was particularly momentous for the company as it renewed its partnership and commitment to the county. 

Speaking at the event, which took place in the newly named Cedral Lounge, John Bradley, country manager and director at Etex Ireland said: “This new chapter in our relationship brings back the legacy of community support and local pride under the Cedral brand. We’re not only investing in Kildare GAA, we’re investing in the future of this community, one we’re immensely proud to call home.”

More than a name – Etex at the heart of Cedral St Conleth’s

More than simply naming a venue, Etex and Cedral products are built into the fabric of this modern,15,000 capacity stadium located in Newbridge.

Visitors will see a range of Etex Ireland products showcased throughout the venue – Cedral Sidings grace the ticket office, Equitone panels enhance the front facade, and Viriform roofing product was used in the new 3,000-seater stand roof.

From Kildare roots to a global building supplier

Tracing its roots from 1936 in Athy, Cedral has grown to become one of south Kildare’s largest employers with a team of 150. Today, it remains the only Irish producer of fibre cement slates, supplying Ireland and international markets. Cedral’s products now adorn buildings from Galway’s Salthill to Santiago, Chile, a testament to the company’s commitment to quality and growth.

In 2020, Cedral consolidated its range of products, including roof slates and sidings, under the Cedral brand as part of the global Etex group. This move has reinforced Cedral’s commitment to innovation and excellence in the Irish market which is also reflected through the company’s membership of Guaranteed Irish.

Where community and tradition inspire

As John Bradley thanked the Cedral and Kildare GAA teams for the work and commitment involved in the redevelopment of the stadium, he reflected on the sponsorship.

He said: “At Etex Ireland, we live by our core values—connect and care, pioneer to lead and passion for excellence. These values guide everything we do, and they’re at the heart of this sponsorship.

"Cedral St Conleth’s Park is more than just a stadium; it’s a place where community, sport, and tradition come together. And we are thrilled to play a role in its redevelopment, helping to create a space that will inspire future generations of athletes, fans, and local supporters.”

To find out more about Etex and Cedral product ranges, see Cedral.ie