Bringing expertise and the latest technology, Kemek delivers global standards to ensure your operation’s potential is unlocked, extracted and delivered, safely and securely.

playWho We Are
image

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

icon

Safety

Safety is at the core of everything we do

icon

Integrity

Behave in an honest, accountable and responsible manner

icon

Customer Focus

Deliver optimised solutions to solve operational challenges

icon

Teamwork

People are the driving force behind our business

icon

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.

image

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.

image
1964

Irish Industrial Explosives Limited was founded

image
1967

IIE factory opened manufacturing Frangex (Nitro-glycerine based explosive) and Ammogex (Anfo)

image
1973

Merger with Imperial Chemical Industries PLC

image
1973

Kemek Limited was founded

image
1973

Ulster Industrial Explosives Limited (UIE) was founded

image
1988

UIE begins manufacturing Energel (Watergel cartridge) product for Northern Ireland market

image
1990

IIE begins manufacturing Kemegel (Watergel Cartridge) production for the Irish Market

image
1998

Kemex emulsion product introduced, using Mobile Explosive Manufacturing Units (MEMU’s)

image
2000

IIE’s Ballygiblin Depot, Co. Cork opens

image
2001

Introduction of underground emulsion (Kemex-U) at the Lisheen Mine, Co. Tipperary

image
2003

Frangex production ceases at IIE’s Factory

image
2007

Introduction of Emugel (cartridge emulsion) production at IIE factory

image
2009

UIE’s cartridge plant closes

image
2009

IIE’s Kilkelly Depot, Co. Mayo opens

image
2014

Emugel production ceases at IIE’s Factory

image
2017

Head office is relocated to the IIE factory grounds

image
2023

IIE and UIE rebrand to Kemek

Acting Responsibly

A forward focused outlook, continuously advancing to develop better business practices and meaningful impact

icon

Safety

Safely manufacturing, transporting, delivering and using explosives is our number one priority.

icon

People

Developing processes, services and opportunities with diversity and inclusion to promote equality for all

icon

Sustainability

Working to improve sustainability across our operations and supply chains

icon

Community

Engaging with our communities to support local initiatives

icon

Continuous Improvement

Investing in operations and education to enhance skill sets, adapt behaviours and evolve processes and practices

To top