The San Diego-based continuous glucose monitor (CGM) maker announced plans to invest $325 million in Athenry last May. Breaking ground on the facility marks the first steps toward bringing more than 1,000 jobs to the area. The company expects the factory to be completely built by the second half of 2025.
Dexcom EVP of Global Operations, Barry Regan, explained what attracted the company to the growing medtech hub last year. The company says its investment represents one of the biggest single private sector investments ever in the West of Ireland. Dexcom is the latest CGM maker to break ground in Ireland, as Abbott began construction on a Kilkenny FreeStyle Libre manufacturing plant last April.
According to a news release, Dexcom plans for its first manufacturing facility in Europe to ensure the flow of products in EMEA. The company sees the potential to lower the cost of goods and improve sustainability by decreasing delivery time in transit. It expects the new facility to produce millions of CGM sensors each year.
“This facility is strategically located in Europe, for Europe,” said Alex Moussa, SVP & GM for EMEA and LATAM at Dexcom. “This development demonstrates our commitment to sustainable growth and operational excellence in EMEA, as well as to the people we serve. This is only the beginning; we’re truly excited for what’s to come.”
More about the new Dexcom plant in Ireland
Dexcom said the 1,000 available jobs in Athenry include support in finance, HR and a variety of engineering roles. The company plans to build strong links with local universities in Galway and nearby counties, particularly around engineering and quality assurance courses.
In addition to local economic impact, Dexcom estimates that every job it creates indirectly creates a further 1-1.7 jobs.
“At Dexcom, we pride ourselves on attracting and retaining world-class talent, which Ireland provides,” said Simone Würzner, senior HR director for EMEA. “As an organization, we empower people to better manage their health with our life-changing continuous glucose monitoring technology. The opportunity this provides to our team is endless, offering challenging and meaningful work that truly makes a difference in people’s lives. We’re looking forward to building our team in Ireland as we enter the next phase of Dexcom in Europe.”
The Irish government, through IDA Ireland, support the project. In an IDA Ireland press release, Regan called the facility a game-changer for the West of Ireland. He expects a positive impact in Galway and the wider region, with this representing “only the beginning.”
Dexcom also demonstrated its commitment to the region with a 12-year naming rights partnership with Connacht Rugby. The rugby team’s “Sportsground” stadium, which has been its home since 1927, will be known as “Dexcom Stadium.”
“The sod turning event is an important moment in this facility – first announced last year – becoming a reality,” IDA Ireland CEO Michael Lohan said. “This important strategic investment by Dexcom, which is the first of its kind outside of the US, will have far-reaching economic and social benefits for Athenry, the West and indeed all of Ireland. I wish continued success to Dexcom and assure the team of IDA Ireland’s continued support.”
