Our Story | Part One: The Beginning

by Kalin Goldstone | Apr 24, 2024

Welcome to the heart of KORE, where family values, innovation and a commitment to excellence converge to shape our story. As an Irish, family run business, we take pride in our heritage and our unwavering dedication to delivering high standard insulation solutions to the construction industry.

At KORE, our journey began with a simple yet profound vision: to provide the best technologically advanced insulation solutions to our customers. Rooted in our family’s values of integrity, hard work, and customer – centricity, we set out to make a difference in the construction landscape.

Founded in 1997, KORE, formerly known as Airpacks Ltd., was established by Tommy Brady, Helen Brady, and Jimmy Macken. Two friends with a background in construction, recognised a gap in the Irish market and with a shared determination, they set out to fill that gap and establish a company that would revolutionise the insulation industry in Ireland.

It all began with the purchase of a 60ft x 190ft factory in Kilnaleck, Co. Cavan in 1997. The facility needed major refurbishment, but with hard work and perseverance, they transformed it into a hub of innovation and excellence. As the company’s success grew, so did the need for expansion. The factory underwent several redevelopment phases, eventually evolving into a state-of-the-art facility totalling more than 45,000 square feet.

In 1998, the seeds of what would become KORE Insulation were planted with a vision for innovation. The founder, driven by passion for quality and sustainability, took a hands-on approach within the company from the very beginning. They built many of the machines by hand, including the cutting line and squaring table. Remarkably, some of these original machines are still in use today, a testament to their durability and craftsmanship.

The journey began with the manufacturing of Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) boards, which quickly became the cornerstone product of the company. These versatile boards found application in a variety of insulation needs, including external, floor, and roof insulation. As demand for quality insulation solutions grew and the market expanded, KORE remained committed to innovation and development. With a focus on meeting the evolving needs of customers and staying ahead of industry trends, KORE continued to push the boundaries of insulation technology. New products and solutions were introduced to the market, each one building upon the company’s reputation for reliability, performance and sustainability.

Today, KORE stands as a testament to the power of vision, hard work and innovation. From humble beginnings to a leader in the field, we are continuing to uphold our founding principles while embracing new opportunities and challenges.

KORE is more than just a business – it’s a family legacy built on a foundation of passion, integrity and a shared vision for a brighter future. With each project we undertake, we honour our heritage while embracing the future with open arms. As we continue to grow, we invite you to join us on this journey as we pave the way for a more sustainable and prosperous tomorrow, one insulated building at a time. Stay tuned to our blog for the latest updates, industry insights, and behind the scenes glimpses into our journey. Thank you for being part of the KORE family, join us in continuing this exciting adventure together.