Life Science sector profile

There’s no better place in the world today for Life Science start-ups

The medical device eco-system in Ireland, in terms of access to specialised staff, managers, suppliers, advisers and investors is world-class. It is by far the best such system in an English speaking area within the favourable European regulatory regime.

The total Life Science sector, across medical devices, pharma and bio in Ireland:

• Exports more than €45 billion annually.
• Employs over 50,000 people directly.
• Includes operations of six of the top seven diagnostics companies.

The Irish Medical Device sector:

• Comprises 160 firms.
• Employs more than 24,000 people.
• Generates annual sales greater than €6 billion.
• Includes operations of eight of the world’s 10 largest medical device companies.
• Global players with substantial Irish operations include Abbott, Bayer, Becton Dickinson, Boston Scientific, Johnson & Johnson, Guidant, Medtronic and Stryker.
• Ireland’s biggest home grown medical device company, Creganna/Tactx, employs over 800 people world-wide and provides a range of contract manufacturing and contract R&D services to start ups and global companies alike.
• More than 50% of medtech companies based in Ireland have dedicated R&D facilities.
• 80% of global stent production is carried out from Ireland.

“Ireland is recognised as a centre for life sciences and medical devices. Enterprise Ireland was particularly helpful in facilitating introductions to Irish clinicians who have played a critical role in the product development process.”
Chris Davey, Marvao Medical

Download Life Science sector brochure [pdf 284KB]

Source: Enterprise Ireland