1996/99
For up to date news visit the Connaught Telegraph website.
New hope for Asahi jobs replacement
4 March 1998
US CORPORATION ACQUIRE VACANT KILLALA SITE
The Japanese owned Asahi plant at Killala, Co, Mayo which closed down last year with the loss of 315 jobs, has been taken over by a New Jersey based corporation.
Universal Process Equipment Inc. (UPE), have purchased the former Asahi assets at Killala and Dublin Port Chemical terminal. UPE who buy and sell used process plants and equipment, the largest company in the world in this business, hope to get a new owner to recommence production in Killala.
In acquiring the Asahi assets it is the goal, purpose and mission of UPE Inc. To find a suitable company who will have the capability to establish a new manufacturing facility that can utilise all or most of the existing assets, and who will have the potential to provide an employment source for the local workforce. UPE are working closely with the IDA for this purpose and companies have visited the site recently.
Mayo County Manager, Mr. Des Mahon, who is chairman of the North Mayo Enterprise Initiative, set up by Tanaiste Mary Harney, following the closure of Asahi, said UPE would use its extensive world-wide marketing expertise to locate a replacement project that would utilise all or most of the existing assets.
He said: "I am confident UPE, with its proven track record, can provide a new manufacturing facility in Killala in the near future and hopefully secure some of the jobs lost in the Asahi closure."
Mr. Mahon said Asahi as a gesture of good will had contributed £200,000 towards job creation projects in North Mayo. Mr. Mahon thanked Asahi for their generous donation. It is understood that Asahi have also contributed to the Killala Community Council project at the local Community Centre.
Connaught Telegraph - News & Sport - March 1998
