The plant experts in Cahir, Co Tipperary, are proud to launch their new brand ‘Perenia’. For over 50 years, this family run business based at Garnavilla, Cahir, was widely known as SAP Nurseries. Perenia is still owned and operated by the Walsh family. It remains one of Ireland’s largest and most diverse plant nurseries.
The professionals that have worked within the business for decades are still at the heart of the team and their plants are Bord Bia quality assured.
To celebrate the rebrand, Perenia is expanding its nurseries at Garnavilla, with construction underway to develop a new 5,000 square metre polytunnel, in addition to its existing 30,000 square metres of greenhouse space. The new polytunnel will enable an increase in production of 15 per cent per annum, and employment growth at the company to 40 full time and part time staff in 2024.
Since the early days, the Walsh family has consistently grown, evolved and expanded the business, never shying away from an opportunity to innovate. The unveiling of Perenia is another step in that process. The family continues to expand its share of the domestic market, and to make major headway in the export market to the UK and Europe.
Currently, Perenia produces over 1 million plants and trees per annum. Perenia specialises in supplying hardy shrubs, hedging and trees to the wholesale and retail market. Perenia’s own nurseries stretch over 100 acres across some of the best growing land at the heart of the Golden Vale.
Speaking at the launch of Perenia, company owner John Walsh said:
“This is a proud day for our family and our valued staff members. My father Tom, who sadly passed away last year, would be extremely proud. He was the founder of this business, and we are continuing his vision and legacy.
“Our strategic plan for SAP Nurseries to move to the new brand, Perenia; the development of new polytunnels; the creation of more employment in our area, and our target to increase our stronghold on the Irish, UK and European markets – these are things that Tom firmly believed in. Hence, it’s very special for the team and our family to deliver on our shared vision here today.”
John Flanagan, Managing Director of Perenia, commented:
“We have a very strong relationship with the Irish market. On the retail side we have major contracts in place to supply supermarkets and garden centres nationwide. In addition to our valued domestic customers, we also supply many of the country’s leading architects, landscapers, designers and corporate businesses. Our exports have grown significantly in recent years; the UK is very strong and growing; and we have a dedicated business development team there, who are helping maintain our growth trajectory.”
John continued: “The staff at Perenia are very excited about this new chapter in our never-ending story. The future for horticulture is bright and we look forward to producing many more plants and trees for a greener and more sustainable world.”