Keenan’s employs approximately 200 people at its base in Borris, Co Carlow. Synonymous with introducing the mixer wagon diet feeder to Ireland, it had been rumoured that the company was in financial difficulty in recent times and needed a cash injection.

The Irish Farmers Journal revealed that advanced negotiations with a prospective buyer have taken place this week, and while nothing has been confirmed, among the names speculated to be interested in buying the company include leading international feed company Alltech.

Newly elected Carlow IFA chair George Collier said he was “anxious” to see the company continue its operations in Borris.

“Keenan’s has a very strong reputation among farmers and throughout the agriculture industry. It’s a great example of a successful and innovative family business and a very important employer in Carlow; I would be very anxious to see the company continue in the area,” he told the Irish Farmers Journal.

Employment

Local Fine Gael councillor Michael Doran said it was a very important business locally, providing employment for many years.

“Keenan’s is a very prestigious brand that is known worldwide and we are extremely proud of it here in Carlow. This development of a potential buyer is extremely welcomed. The business is important for Carlow, and for the future of Irish industry, our exports and our reputation abroad,” he said.

Labour councillor Willie Quinn from Borris said it would be a massive loss to the area if anything happened to Keenan’s.

“They are a fantastic employer, employing 200 local people in a 20 to 30 mile radius in Carlow and Kilkenny. When things were bad during the Celtic Tiger years they kept the show on the road. I hope the Keenan’s themselves can still be a part of the business - they deserve that much,” he said.

Read more

Keenan’s up for sale and feed buyer likely