The Search for Life Sciences Exporter of the Year 2010 has begun, with the Irish Exporters Association and Kuehne+Nagel linking up to promote the Export Industry Awards

The Irish Exporters Association (IEA) has linked up with the Keuhne+Nagel in the search for the Life Sciences Exporter of the Year 2010, a key category in the National Export Industry Awards.
The award scheme is for Life Sciences companies who have successfully tackled export markets, was launched today by John Whelan, chief executive of the IEA. Organised by the IEA in conjunction with Kuehne +Nagel , the competition recognises the outstanding achievements and innovative activity of Life Science companies in tackling overseas markets .The Awards search will culminate with a Gala Awards ceremony on November 25th when the Taoiseach will present the category winner, and the overall Exporter of the Year.
The Life Sciences Exporter of the Year Award 2010, sponsored by Kuehne +Nagel, recognises companies in the life sciences sector that have made significant progress in securing and building export markets for their products and services .

Speaking at the launch of the Life Sciences Award scheme, Marcus Bennett, Managing Director of Kuehne + Nagel in Ireland stated:

‘’The pharmaceutical, healthcare and medical devices sector has been the most dynamic of Ireland’s merchandise exporters in recent year. We at Kuehne + Nagel recognise the importance of supporting this industry in delivering a best in class supply chain solution. We have been privileged to partner with many of the industry leaders in delivering their goods efficiently to the global market place. Kuehne + Nagel are committed to ensuring that through our supply chain solutions Ireland Inc is viewed as a centre for long term viable inward investment .’’

‘’Kuehne + Nagel are delighted to sponsor the Life Sciences Exporter of the Year Award for 2010, and wish all applicants every success.’’

John Whelan, CEO of the Irish Exporters Association stated at the launch:
‘’The 2009 growth in pharmaceutical and medical devices exports confirms Ireland is one of the leading international locations for the Life Science industry. The industry which spans pharmaceuticals, chemicals, diagnostics, medical devices and biotechnology generates over 60% of our merchandise exports making Ireland the largest net exporter of medicines globally. Ireland is home to 13 of the top 15 companies in the world and manufactures 9 of the world’s top 15 medicines. In 2009 there were over 24,500 people employed in the sector producing exports of over €53 billion. Globally the sector has been expanding by 5-6% per annum since the turn of the decade, and last year recorded global sales of US $745 billion. By comparison exports of Life Sciences products from Ireland have more doubled in the same time- frame and now account for 9% of global sales’’
‘’The IEA welcome the sponsorship of this important Export Award by Kuehne + Nagel for 2010’’


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