Reliance, Ireland’s largest technical distributor of engineering components and automation solutions, is celebrating 100 years of innovation, service, and growth. From selling bearings out of the back of a Model T truck in Cork to becoming a leader in industrial, agricultural, and automation solutions, Reliance has been at the heart of Ireland’s engineering sector for a century.
With a commitment to excellence and customer-first service, Reliance has become a trusted partner across multiple industries, supplying high-quality products such as bearings, V-belts, pulleys, chains, sprockets, lubricants, and gearboxes. The company is also Ireland’s largest supplier of PTO shafts and related spares, with the unique capability to manufacture these components locally.
Reliance’s success is built on a foundation of investment, innovation, and service. With strategic locations in Dublin, Cork, Limerick, and Antrim—ensuring that no customer is more than a few hours away.
A Legacy of Growth and Service
Reflecting on the company’s centennial milestone, Group Managing Director Peter Creighton said:
"We are incredibly proud to celebrate 100 years of Reliance, but we are just getting started. Our legacy is built on trust, innovation, and service. We have helped shape Ireland’s industrial landscape, and as we step into the future, we remain committed to delivering solutions that drive efficiency, sustainability, and progress for our customers."
Engineering, Agriculture, and Automation—Reliance’s Three Pillars
Reliance’s business is structured around three key areas: Industry, Agriculture, and Automation. From powering Ireland’s industries to keeping farms moving efficiently, Reliance has become a trusted partner in engineering and automation.
A major milestone in its industrial offerings is its investment in assembling Bonfiglioli gearboxes in Ireland, reducing lead times for industries that rely on these essential components. In agriculture, the company’s role as Ireland’s largest PTO shaft supplier is a testament to its ability to provide both standard and custom-built solutions.
In automation, Reliance has positioned itself at the cutting edge of Ireland’s robotics revolution, supplying collaborative robots (cobots), Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs), industrial robots, and vision systems that enhance productivity and efficiency across sectors.
Reliance’s Impact: The Dublin Airport Project
Among the many projects Reliance has delivered over the years, one of the most rewarding was its collaboration with DAA at Dublin Airport. Through ServiceBots, a division of Reliance, the company deployed four service robots designed to assist passengers with disabilities, offering seamless and independent navigation from security to their departure gates.
"This project was about more than just technology—it was about changing lives," said Creighton. "Seeing the gratitude of passengers who could travel with greater independence was one of the most fulfilling moments in our 100-year history."
The success of this pilot project underscores Reliance’s dedication to applying innovation for the betterment of society.
Strengthening Ireland’s Industrial Resilience
As part of its commitment to supporting Ireland’s economy, Reliance has joined Dublin Chamber, aligning with other forward-thinking businesses to share knowledge, drive innovation, and collaborate on ensuring Ireland’s industries remain competitive and resilient in times of global risk.
"Our mission has always been to support Irish industry," said Creighton. "By joining the Dublin Chamber, we aim to share our expertise, collaborate with other leaders, and ensure that Ireland’s industrial and economic future remains strong despite global uncertainties."
The Next Century: Innovation and Sustainability
As Reliance embarks on its next century, the company remains focused on sustainability, digital transformation, and advanced automation. With growing demand for energy-efficient solutions, Reliance is actively deploying technologies that help businesses reduce waste, optimise operations, and improve sustainability.
Looking ahead, the company plans to further expand its robotics division, bringing AI-powered automation to industries such as healthcare, logistics, and hospitality.
"We’ve come a long way from selling bearings out of a truck, and we’re just getting started," Creighton added. "The next 100 years will be about even greater innovation, smarter solutions, and a continued commitment to supporting the industries that keep Ireland moving."
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