Mallow Firm McSherry Electrical Powers €2m Croke Park LED Revolution

• Cork company partners with global giant Musco Lighting to deliver landmark stadium upgrade ahead of NFL showdown

A Mallow-based electrical contractor is behind a €2 million sustainable lighting transformation at Ireland's most iconic stadium, proving that Munster businesses can compete on the world stage.

McSherry Electrical, which employs 80 staff locally, has partnered with global sports lighting leader Musco Lighting to install a state-of-the-art LED floodlight system at Croke Park. The new system will make its debut later this month when the Pittsburgh Steelers face the Minnesota Vikings in the NFL International Series game.

The project marks a remarkable achievement for the second-generation family business, which will celebrate its 40th anniversary next year. Founded by Brian McSherry and now led by his son Neil McSherry, Managing Director, the company has evolved from its roots in process and manufacturing industries to become a major player in sports infrastructure across Ireland and the UK.

Peter McKenna, Stadium Director at Croke Park, said the upgrade represents "a major milestone in our drive for sustainability and innovation."

"This system enhances playing conditions, improves energy efficiency, and ensures Croke Park continues to deliver world-class events while reducing our carbon footprint. We are excited to be working with Musco on this important project for the stadium."

The new LED system replaces the stadium's original 2007 incandescent floodlights with custom-engineered technology offering superior energy efficiency, broadcast-quality lighting, and reduced maintenance requirements. The installation positions Croke Park alongside other premier venues using Musco technology, including Wembley Stadium, the Etihad Stadium, and Dublin's Aviva Stadium.

For McSherry Electrical, the Croke Park project represents the latest in a string of high-profile stadium contracts. The Mallow firm has recently completed lighting projects at Cardiff's Principality Stadium, Wexford Park, and Connacht Rugby's Sports Grounds in Galway. The company's next major undertaking involves working with one of the UK's leading Premiership football clubs.

Neil McSherry expressed pride in the company's role:

"We're thrilled to work alongside Musco on this landmark installation. Croke Park holds a special place in Irish life, and we're proud to play a role in its evolution through sustainable, future-focused solutions."

The company's growth trajectory reflects significant investment in both innovation and workforce development. McSherry Electrical dedicates the equivalent of 5% of its annual salary expenditure to training and development programmes, whilst maintaining ISO certifications for quality (9001), environmental management (14001), and occupational health and safety (45001).

Chris Limpach, Director of Europe, Middle East & Africa Business at Musco Lighting, praised the partnership:

"Croke Park is a place where the history speaks for itself. It's hosted unforgettable events and is a source of pride for the entire nation. We're honoured to help usher in a new era of performance and sustainability with our LED technology."

The transformation at Croke Park demonstrates how Cork and Munster businesses are increasingly winning contracts on the international stage. McSherry Electrical's journey from a local contractor to a company delivering multi-million euro projects at world-famous venues showcases the technical expertise available in the region.

The company has successfully diversified across multiple sectors including food and beverage, transport and infrastructure, cleanroom environments, and increasingly, sports and leisure facilities. This strategic expansion has positioned the Mallow firm as a leader in complex electrical installations, competing successfully against much larger international contractors.

As Croke Park prepares to host the NFL game this September, the new lighting system will showcase not just American football under optimal conditions, but also the capabilities of a Cork company that has illuminated its way from local roots to global recognition.

The LED upgrade forms part of Croke Park's broader commitment to sustainability, with the new system expected to deliver significant energy savings and carbon reduction compared to the previous metal halide installation.