HP celebrates 40 Years of Innovation in Galway

The evolution of the HP business in Ireland is a great example and a practical case study for Ireland Inc. Company transformation, as identified in IDA’s strategy ‘Horizon 2020’, plays a significant role in Ireland’s return to economic prosperity and HP Galway demonstrates the importance of this by adapting to change, continuously innovating, moving up the value chain and creating value added jobs. I would like to congratulate HP on this important milestone and wish the company the continued support of IDA Ireland into the future.

Barry O'Leary, CEO, IDA Ireland

Galway, Tuesday 6th September, 2011 - Taoiseach Enda Kenny, today met with senior management at HP, one of the world’s largest technology companies, as it celebrates 40 years of innovation and transformation in Galway.

Digital, the world’s largest manufacturer of mini-computers at the time, established an operation in Galway in 1971.  In 1973, Digital moved to HP’s current site in Ballybrit and over the next thirty years expanded to include a software manufacturing function; ceasing its hardware manufacturing in 1994. Digital was acquired by Compaq, one of the world’s largest PC manufacturers in 1998 and in 2002, HP announced its takeover of Compaq.

Speaking from Galway earlier today, Taoiseach Enda Kenny said, ‘I am delighted to be here today to celebrate the 40 year anniversary of this operation. This is an important centre for Research & Development especially in the areas of IT Development and Cloud Computing an area the Government has prioritised in the Programme for Government for development.  Within the last 12 months HP has announced the creation of an additional 150 jobs in Galway. Throughout its long history the HP business in Galway has continued to evolve, grow, change and innovate. It has adapted to change through two takeovers, corporate downsizing, new technology and customer needs. On behalf of the Irish Government I would like to wish HP continued success with this operation and offer our full support as it grows.’

Barry O’Leary, CEO of IDA Ireland said, ‘The evolution of the HP business in Ireland is a great example and a practical case study for Ireland Inc. Company transformation, as identified in IDA’s strategy ‘Horizon 2020’, plays a significant role in Ireland’s return to economic prosperity and HP Galway demonstrates the importance of this by adapting to change, continuously innovating, moving up the value chain and creating value added jobs. I would like to congratulate HP on this important milestone and wish the company the continued support of IDA Ireland into the future.’

For further information
IDA Ireland
Catherina Blewitt, Regional Press & PR Executive, Mob: + 353 (0) 87 2069099