A new banana ripening and distribution centre owned and operated by banana distributors Fyffes has opened in Balbriggan.
The facility is located in the M1 Business Park at Courtlough, and when operating at full capacity the centre will have an output of over 7 million bananas per week.
The facility, commissioned in November 2019, extends to 10 acres and comprises the 8,500 sq. metres ripening and distribution centre and an adjacent 1,750 sq. metres two-storey office and administration block.
Designed by Irish architects Scott Tallon Walker and built by Monaghan-based construction firm, Meegan Builders, the refrigeration fit out was provided by the Cross Group.
Replacing the company’s former facility in Swords, it has the capacity to accommodate a staff of 120 people.
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Fyffes’ bananas are soured in Central and South America and imported into Ireland through Cork Port.
Constructed in line with new building regulations, Fyffes claims the ripening facility uses 60% less energy than the building it replaces.
The building has roof-mounted photovoltaic panels whilst both the office heating and cooling systems are linked to a Ground Source Heat Pump. Rainwater harvesting systems have also been installed to help conserve and reduce water consumption.
A green roof system has been installed for growing flora and encouraging pollinators. The building uses LED lights and features external ‘brise soleil’ to provide passive shading and reduce overheating.
Fyffes CEO Helge Sparsoe commented: “The new development will have a very positive impact on Fyffes by delivering even greater productivity, and strengthening its ability to service the needs of our customers.”
Founded in 1888 by Edward Wathen Fyffe, Fyffes is the world’s oldest fruit brand, and is the largest importer of Fairtrade certified bananas in the world.
Acquired in 1986 by Dundalk fruit importers McCanns – and now part of the Japanese Sumitomo Corporation – Fyffes has annual turnover of €1.2 billion.
Fyffes also has a base in Dundalk and employs over 100 people in Ireland. Globally, the organisation employs over 10,000 people and has offices in 12 countries.
Photo: Fyffes Ireland managing director Gerry Cunningham and general manager Ciaran Sweeney. (Pic: Mac Innes Photography)
