Wm O’ Donnell Engineering Limited is a family-run rural business based in Emly, Co Tipperary and since its foundation in 1978 has grown to become one of Ireland’s leading agricultural engineering companies. Initially operating from a small scale garage the company has now expanded to a production facility of 123,000 sq.feet. encompassing large workshops, storage and office space across two sites.
O’Donnell’s primary motivation was to supply progressive farmers in the locality with innovative products, which contributed to the efficient running of both farmyard and farm activity. The business has grown from humble beginnings to become one of the leaders in its industry sector. All products are produced with the user foremost in mind. Accordingly, all products are manufactured to the highest standards and cost-effective design.
This company has benefitted from LEADER funding on a number of innovative projects over the past decade and South Tipperary Development CLG has guided them through the process by providing advice, support and guidance.
The projects funded include the installation of three phase electricity at their newly expanded manufacturing site back in 2010 and the purchase of a bandsaw and bending machine in 2011. This enabled the company to both undertake Research and Development work into the new and innovative area of automated cattle handling facilities and to manufacture these new products.
The most recent projects approved under the LEADER Programme include the installation of ERP company software and the purchase of a Laser Cutting Processing Centre. These projects represent significant innovation and upgrade in their equipment and processes and the scale of the investment involved would simply not have been possible without LEADER grant aid.
Speaking recently, Billy O’ Donnell said “We are very grateful to South Tipperary Development Company and LEADER for their support of us over the years. They came on board at crucial points in our development, and helped us to grow to our current size, employing 24 people in the small village of Emly”.
