National Tile Ltd hosted the inaugural “Meet the Business” on the 29th September 2023. Interested persons from Industry, Commerce and Education together with the Chamber represented by Una McGoey (Chamber President), Paddy Malone (PRO), Pat McCormick (Ex President) and of course Brenda McGeeney, started to arrive for a breakfast sponsored by National Tile at 8.30am. This was an informal get to know you session with plenty of meet and greet. An opportunity to catch up with old colleagues and make new friends.
At 9am Graham Purcell (Managing Director) kicked off with an introduction to National Tile Ltd and a brief history from its very humble begins, distributing an occasional 20’ container of ceramic tiles to being one of the larger distributors and retailers of wood flooring, ceramic tile and related accessories and services.
Brian Woods (Financial Manager) took over explaining the environmental and cost saving measures they have made in the last year, including a new type of roof and solar panels. Graham gave examples of new initiatives being introduced as early as next week. Of particular interest are the Bionics which are being commissioned next week. This is an innovative system which allows the user to attach machinery to their bodies and aid in physical lifting and movement. This is a first for Ireland.
Christina Murray (Retail Manager) showed the group the showroom discussing and showing the various products on display. After this Derek Murdock (Logistics and Warehouse Manager) showed the participants the warehouse operations. He answered questions regarding locating materials, inward logistics and outward movements.
The workshop was next and Gavin McDonald (Sales Manager) Showed the group how they transform raw timber strips into multi surfaced, finished flooring. Derek took over demonstrating how we cut and mesh mount mosaic, then Brian fielded questions regarding the water jet cutting equipment used by National Tile Ltd. Krzysztof Marciniak (Marketing and Graphics Manager) demonstrated several intricate cuts which are achievable with this technology. Graham mentioned several prestigious jobs that had been undertaken worldwide where National Tile Ltd materials had ended up.
Further to the demonstrations, several groups formed where opportunities for advancement for both National Tile Ltd and their organisation were clearly taking place. “This is a great opportunity for us to showcase and bask in our achievements together with receiving some recognition and have some fun doing it” (Graham Purcell) .
Una thanked Graham and his staff for their hospitality and time. She commended the company for its innovation in energy efficiencies and its success in reducing waste. She noted the position National Tile has now secured by hard work, innovation and an excellent well motivated work shop. She thanked all for attending and looked forward to other events, next of which will be our Budget Breakfast Briefing.
