Bringing expertise and the latest technology, Kemek delivers global standards to ensure your operation’s potential is unlocked, extracted and delivered, safely and securely.
Who We Are
Our Vision
To be the leading provider of blasting expertise, superior services and products, partnering with our customers to fully unlock the potential of their operations.
Our Values
Safety
Safety is at the core of everything we do
Integrity
Behave in an honest, accountable and responsible manner
Customer Focus
Deliver optimised solutions to solve operational challenges
Teamwork
People are the driving force behind our business
Excellence
Leading changes for more efficient and dynamic solutions
Our Mission
To provide expert advice, superior services and products to the Quarrying, Mining and Civil Engineering industries.
Our History
Irish Industrial Explosives Ltd (IIE) founded in 1964 was later joined by Ulster Industrial Explosives Ltd (UIE) founded in 1973. Both companies are part of the EPC Groupe and have been serving the Mining, Quarrying & Civil Engineering Industries on the island of Ireland over this time. Providing customers with global safety standards and the very latest in explosive technology. In 2023, both companies rebranded to adopt a single identity, Kemek.
1964
Irish Industrial Explosives Limited was founded
1967
IIE factory opened manufacturing Frangex (Nitro-glycerine based explosive) and Ammogex (Anfo)
1973
Merger with Imperial Chemical Industries PLC
1973
Kemek Limited was founded
1973
Ulster Industrial Explosives Limited (UIE) was founded
1988
UIE begins manufacturing Energel (Watergel cartridge) product for Northern Ireland market
1990
IIE begins manufacturing Kemegel (Watergel Cartridge) production for the Irish Market
1998
Kemex emulsion product introduced, using Mobile Explosive Manufacturing Units (MEMU’s)
2000
IIE’s Ballygiblin Depot, Co. Cork opens
2001
Introduction of underground emulsion (Kemex-U) at the Lisheen Mine, Co. Tipperary
2003
Frangex production ceases at IIE’s Factory
2007
Introduction of Emugel (cartridge emulsion) production at IIE factory
2009
UIE’s cartridge plant closes
2009
IIE’s Kilkelly Depot, Co. Mayo opens
2014
Emugel production ceases at IIE’s Factory
2017
Head office is relocated to the IIE factory grounds
2023
IIE and UIE rebrand to Kemek
Acting Responsibly
A forward focused outlook, continuously advancing to develop better business practices and meaningful impact
Safety
Safely manufacturing, transporting, delivering and using explosives is our number one priority.
People
Developing processes, services and opportunities with diversity and inclusion to promote equality for all
Sustainability
Working to improve sustainability across our operations and supply chains
Community
Engaging with our communities to support local initiatives
Continuous Improvement
Investing in operations and education to enhance skill sets, adapt behaviours and evolve processes and practices