Ireland-based medical device company Arrotek marks its 20th anniversary this February, celebrating two decades of growth, achievements, and innovation in the dynamic and ever-evolving medical technology sector.
Arrotek, renowned for its expertise in designing and manufacturing minimally invasive medical devices, has made significant contributions to the healthcare industry. The company specializes in interventional and diagnostic catheters, guidewires, and needles, providing comprehensive design, manufacturing, and regulatory services to a diverse range of clients—from multinational life sciences companies to fast-growing start-ups and innovators.
Now part of US-based Theragenics, Arrotek continues to thrive under the leadership of co-founders Mark Pugh and Ger O’Carroll, both of whom remain actively involved in driving the company’s success. Mark also serves as the CEO of Theragenics, ensuring continued collaboration and growth.
From Humble Beginnings to Rapid Expansion
Founded in 2005 by engineers Ger O’Carroll and Mark Pugh, Arrotek began with a clear vision to create flexible, innovative solutions that would help transform customer ideas into world-class medical devices used globally in cath labs and surgeries.
Mark Pugh reflects: “In those early days, we were determined to push engineering boundaries and deliver solutions that would shape the future of medical devices. That vision has remained steadfast since 2005.”
Starting out in small premises in Strandhill, Sligo, Ireland, Arrotek experienced rapid growth, both in its customer base and workforce. In 2007, the company hired its first employee, who is still part of the team today. As the business expanded, so did its infrastructure.
A Journey of Growth and Expansion
Arrotek’s journey of growth began in 2012 when the company’s rapid success necessitated a move to larger facilities. The company relocated from its original site in Strandhill to a more expansive location in Collooney, Co. Sligo. This move, however, was only the beginning. By 2019, Arrotek had outgrown this space once again and opened a state-of-the-art facility in Finisklin, Sligo. This new site featured advanced cleanroom spaces, manufacturing areas, and cutting-edge laboratory and engineering facilities, enabling Arrotek to meet increasing demand.
Continuing its expansion, Arrotek further upgraded its Finisklin facility in 2023, enhancing its manufacturing, packaging, and engineering capabilities. The facility now boasts four cleanrooms, significantly improving operational efficiency and scalability. This expansion also contributed to Arrotek’s growing workforce, which now exceeds 100 employees in its Irish facility, who support clients across Europe, the U.S., and beyond.
A significant milestone in Arrotek’s evolution came in 2019 when the company was acquired by Theragenics Corporation. This acquisition greatly enhanced Arrotek’s international presence and provided access to Theragenics’ extensive global network and resources, fuelling further innovation and success.
In 2024, Arrotek reached another key achievement with the rebranding of Needletech, a Massachusetts-based leader in needle manufacturing, to the Arrotek name. This rebrand solidified Arrotek’s position as a global leader in the medical device sector, broadening its portfolio and expanding its capabilities to meet the growing demands of the MedTech market.
Arrotek’s global reach continues to expand, with the company now operating cutting-edge manufacturing facilities in Costa Rica with one production plant already operational and another due to open later this year, further boosting its capacity for high-quality production and reinforcing its commitment to excellence in the medical device industry.
Looking Ahead: Innovation and Continued Growth
Ger O’Carroll shares, “The future is always a key focus for us — whether it’s expanding our team, enhancing our facilities, or advancing our in-house R&D efforts. The MedTech industry provides boundless opportunities, and we are driven by a passion to continue creating innovative solutions and deliver exceptional services to our customers.”
Mark Pugh adds, “Our progress wouldn’t have been possible without our talented team. While technology is crucial, our people make Arrotek the success it is today. I also want to express our deep appreciation to our customers, whose trust and collaboration have been invaluable over the last 20 years. We’re committed to delivering excellence at the forefront of medical device engineering.”
Ends.
About Arrotek
Arrotek offers comprehensive services in medical device design, development, manufacturing, and regulatory compliance. Specialising in minimally invasive devices such as catheters, guidewires, and specialty medical needles, Arrotek combines engineering expertise with state-of-the-art facilities in the US, Ireland, and Costa Rica to serve a wide range of clients in the global MedTech sector. The company is part of Theragenics Corporation, which brings additional resources and support to further drive Arrotek’s global growth and innovation.
