Edwards Lifesciences Corporation celebrated the opening of its new manufacturing centre in Castletroy, Co Limerick, and announced its intention to increase its workforce to 850 employees in the coming years. This represents the creation of 250 additional jobs compared with what was initially announced at the groundbreaking in 2019. 

Edwards established operations in Ireland in 2018 at a facility in the Shannon Freezone and already employs 250 people in the region. The new purpose-built facility will focus on the manufacture of breakthrough innovative therapies and life-saving medical technologies for patients suffering from heart valve disease.

Demonstrates confidence in midwest

“Our announcement illustrates the continued growth of our company globally and demonstrates our confidence in the midwest of Ireland. By expanding our presence in the area, we aim to create a hub for Europe and bring us closer to the patients in the region who will receive these life-saving therapies,” said Michael A Mussallem, chairman and chief executive officer of Edwards Lifesciences.

 Employees at the plant will manufacture transcatheter therapies to repair or replace damaged heart valves, enabling patients to live longer, healthier lives. 

“Our teams are dedicated to patients and work with passion. We look forward to welcoming new members to join us in our mission to save and improve the lives of thousands of people around the world,” said Mussallem.

Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment Leo Varadkar said: “It’s great to be back in Limerick to officially open this fantastic new facility for Edwards Lifesciences. It will employ 250 more people than initially estimated, bringing the total new jobs being created to 850.

"It’s an enormous vote of confidence in the Mid-West region and the talent, skills and experience on offer here. Congratulations to the team involved and the very best of luck with this remarkable expansion.” 

CEO of IDA Ireland Martin Shanahan said: “An investment of this scale by Edwards Lifesciences, a global leader in its field, is terrific news for the midwest Region and indeed for Ireland. It demonstrates the company’s commitment to the region and its ambitions for its operations here.”