Exhibition honouring Krups legacy
A unique exhibition celebrating the contribution of Krups and its dedicated workers to the social and economic fabric of the Mide-West for over 35 years, has opened at the LEDP Campus, Roxboro, Limerick. Officially opened by Councillor Dan Sweeney, Príomh Chomhairleoir, in the presence of His Excellency, the German Ambassador-Designate to Ireland, David Gill, the exhibition forms part of Limerick Enterprise Development Partnership’s (LEDP) 25th year celebrations.
Curated by Limerick Museum, and in collaboration with UL’s Centre for Irish-German Studies, the exhibition offers the public a nostalgic journey through the regions industrial past - showcasing a collection of stories, artefacts, and memorabilia representing the rich history of the factory.
Krups was one of Limerick’s first FDI companies, commencing production in 1964 on the city’s southside. At its height, over 1,200 people were employed directly in the factory considered one of the region’s best employers for over three decades.
Former employees of Krups and their families have contributed photographs, tools, diaries and Krups products to the exhibition following a successful public appeal in April. Visitors are encouraged to explore the exhibition and all former Krups employees who visit will receive a specially commissioned commemorative lapel.
Niall O’Callaghan, Chief Executive of LEDP, said: “This exhibition allows us to honour the legacy of Krups and the people who were integral to its success. It is a significant milestone for LEDP as we reflect on 25 years of progress and transformation following the factory's closure. The stories and items shared by the former Krups employees demonstrate the deep connection the company had with Limerick, and we are excited to present these memories to the public.”
The factory’s devastating closure in 1998 was the catalyst for the formation of LEDP as an independent, not-for-profit charity which has in 25 years since successfully contributed to the social fabric of Limerick by facilitating job creation, education and upskilling, benevolent projects, and continues to be a key stimulator for regeneration across Limerick City. There are now 35 enterprises and over 700 jobs and 2,000 training places at the original site, far surpassing the original goal of replacing the lost jobs in Krups, with the LEDP project considered a European ‘best in class’ example of community regeneration.
The exhibition is open to the public free of charge until October 25, Monday to Friday 8am-4pm and is located at the Innovation Hub, LEDP Campus, Roxboro, Limerick.