Business and Financial U.K. Based IRISS to move Global Manufacturing Headquarters to Manatee County

BRADENTON – IRISS, which manufactures infrared windows for inspecting industrial electrical equipment, will consolidate its U.K.-based manufacturing operation and U.S. headquarters at a new global headquarters to be constructed in Manatee County, according to Sharon Hillstrom, president of the Manatee Economic Development Corporation (MEDC).  IRISS plans to add 20 positions over three years at the facility in Lakewood Ranch Commerce Center beginning in 2013.

The Manatee Board of County Commissioners recently approved $12,000 in performance-based incentives, and the State of Florida also committed $48,000 to accelerate the company’s hiring and capital investment. In addition, IRISS qualified for expedited permitting and approximately $6,393 in transportation impact fee mitigation from Manatee County Government.

”Our phenomenal growth of 69 percent year over year is driving the decision to co-locate our manufacturing and global headquarters in Manatee County,“ said Martin Robinson, IRISS chief executive officer.  ”We were particularly attracted by the airports and road network, plus the area’s appeal for our clients from northern states who will attend our learning center classes and conferences.“

”IRISS’ selection of Manatee County validates Florida as an avid supporter of new companies and a state that embraces the opportunities they can bring to our citizens and communities,“ said Gray Swoope, president & CEO of Enterprise Florida Inc., the state’s chief economic development organization.  ”We’re providing the kind of atmosphere, talent and resources that help companies like IRISS enhance their growth and productivity.“

IRISS makes industrial-grade infrared windows that are used by industrial customers such as electric utilities and others that deal with high-voltage electrical equipment. IRISS Infrared Windows use infrared cameras that can see the infrared energy given off by problems such as corrosion that may affect electrical switchgear or transformers. The IRISS window allows technicians to monitor equipment and intervene before dangerous problems develop, Robinson said. IRISS is also an industry leader providing training programs and expertise to clients.

IRISS currently operates three headquarters facilities around the world: IRISS Ltd. EMEA Headquarters in Chelmsford Essex in the United Kingdom, IRISS-Asia Pty Ltd. APAC Headquarters in Australia, and the U.S. headquarters in Bradenton where IRISS has eight employees. The new, $5.7-million-dollar global headquarters in Manatee County will be 33,000 square feet and will include manufacturing and support operations. The company will invest $1.2 million in equipment and will provide a training center for clients who will visit to learn about infrared inspection and earn industry certification. The project is scheduled for completion in mid-2013.  Fred M. Starling Inc. is the contractor and Fleischman Garcia is the architect.

”The IRISS project demonstrates Manatee County’s viability as a destination for international manufacturing and global headquarters for fast-growing companies,“ said Hillstrom, whose organization assisted IRISS in applying for state and local incentives, as well as expedited permitting. The MEDC also is working with IRISS on possible training grants. ”We are excited about the prospects for IRISS to grow its employee base here and to attract clients to the training center from other states, which allows us to showcase Manatee County to other businesses,“ she said.

The 20 positions that IRISS plans to add at the new Manatee County facility will be in various roles. Potential job candidates should monitor the company’s website at www.iriss.com.

”IRISS had many options for consolidating its manufacturing and global headquarters, including doing so close to home in the United Kingdom,“ said Ed Hunzeker, Manatee County administrator. ”The judicious use of performance-based incentives and expedited permitting is helping Manatee County compete for the better-paying jobs that are associated with technology manufacturing and other desirable, high-growth businesses.“  A list of Manatee County's economic development incentives is available at www.mymanatee.org/econ_dev.