€8m timber frame housing factory extension to create 150 jobs in Cork

Taoiseach opens new extension which will see Cygnum production capacity rise from 1,400 to 2,500 housing units per year

Taoiseach Micheál Martin, Patrick Atkinson, Chief Executive of Chadwicks Group  and John Desmond, Managing Director of Cygnum at the official opening of an €8m factory extension in Macroom. Picture: Cathal Noonan

A Co Cork company leading the way in producing building timber frame structures for housing is to create 150 jobs as it increases capacity at its production facility.

Cygnum based in Macroom in Co Cork specialises in the design and manufacturing of timber frame structures, and installed 1,250 timber frame housing units last year. An €8m investment in extending its Macroom factory facility was unveiled on Thursday at a ceremony inaugurated by Taoiseach Micheál Martin. 

 

This will see Cygnum increase its production capacity from 1,400 to 2,500 housing units per year, supporting the delivery of homes across Ireland.

“Cygnum’s expansion, and the creation of 150 new jobs, is a clear vote of confidence in the future of modern methods of construction in Ireland," said Mr Martin.

"I want to commend the Cygnum team and Chadwicks Group for their ambition and leadership. This investment aligns strongly with the Government’s priorities of increasing housing supply, supporting regional development, and building a more sustainable future for Ireland. This new facility will help increase capacity and support the delivery of high-quality homes for communities across the country.” 

The Macroom business recorded turnover of more than €34.6m in 2024, up from €23.6m a year previous, while operating profits grew from €1.45m to €5.46m in 2024.

Cygnum recently joined Chadwicks Group, part of Grafton Group. Grafton intends to operate Cygnum alongside Chadwicks, its distribution business.

Cygnum was first established in 1997, and has delivered projects across a wide range of sectors, including large-scale housing developments, hotels, apartment buildings, care homes, and schools. Cygnum designs, manufactures and installs timber frame structures for residential developments and has grown to become a significant contributor in Ireland’s offsite construction sector. The new extension incorporates advanced manufacturing technologies and digitalisation, enabling greater precision, improved efficiency, and more sustainable use of materials.

Chadwicks Group chief executive Patrick Atkinson said the expansion is a clear demonstration of Cygnum’s ambition and capability. "Increasing capacity to this level is a significant step in supporting the delivery of new homes at the pace and scale required. As part of Chadwicks Group, Cygnum is exceptionally well positioned to drive continued innovation and growth within the sector.” 

Cygnum managing director John Desmond said the investment comes at a "transformative moment" for the business. "By expanding our capacity and embracing advanced manufacturing technologies, we are better positioned than ever to support our customers in delivering much-needed homes across Ireland. We are proud to play a leading role in modern methods of construction and to contribute to a more sustainable built environment.”  

 

CORK BUSINESS

A collection of the latest business articles and business analysis from Cork.