Staying Ahead of Cyber Threats: Topform Securing Its Business for Future Growth
Background
For over 50 years, Topform, a leading manufacturer of kitchen countertops based in Gort, Co. Galway, has been at the forefront of innovation. With 50 employees and 50% of its products exported, the company has carved out a niche in the market, particularly in supplying smaller countertops for mobile homes in the UK. As they continue to expand, the emerging refurbishment market, both domestically and internationally, presents new opportunities. However, with growth comes increased risk, especially in the realm of cyber security.
A Long-Standing Partnership with Enterprise Ireland
Topform has been an Enterprise Ireland (EI) client for over 40 years, evolving alongside the organisation. Chairman of Topform, Paul Glynn acknowledges EI’s impact:
“We see EI as more than just a funding body. The quality of their people, their insights, and their ability to foster ambition have been invaluable. They push us to think bigger—whether it is integrating AI into our processes or refining business development strategies.”
Having embraced lean methodologies and continuous improvement, Topform views technology as a core enabler of its success. This mindset led them to identify cyber security as a priority area for enhancement.
Paul Browe, EI’s AI & Cyber Security Review Grant Lead, emphasises the importance of proactive cyber security: “While fear can drive action, potential should be the real motivator. Cyber security awareness fosters a forward-thinking, proactive company culture that stays ahead of the digital curve.“
Topform’s Proactive Approach to Technology & Security
Topform has always been forward-thinking in technology adoption. Their digital transformation began in 2019, just before the pandemic, ensuring seamless communication with clients worldwide. As their reliance on digital tools grew, so did their awareness of cyber threats. The increasing sophistication of cybercriminals and the rise of ransomware attacks made it clear that cyber security could no longer be a secondary concern.
“We kept our systems up to date, but the reality is that cybercrime is an industry in itself. Hackers are highly skilled, and we knew we needed an expert review to identify potential weaknesses. When we saw that Enterprise Ireland was offering a cyber security grant, it was the perfect fit for what we needed.” – Paul Glynn, Chairman, Topform.
Selecting the Right Technology Partners
Recognising cyber security demands specialised expertise, Topform outsourced its IT management over a decade ago to ensure top-tier operations. For their Cyber Review, they selected CommSec, a dedicated cyber security specialist with outstanding reviews and a proven track record. Founded in 2013 to combat cyber threats on behalf of businesses, CommSec is a prominent member of Cyber Ireland and one of approximately 50 cyber security providers qualified to conduct the Cyber Review assessment. Working collaboratively with Topform’s existing IT service provider, CommSec delivered a comprehensive evaluation aligned with guidance from the National Cyber Security Centre Ireland.
“CommSec was highly recommended by our IT provider, and after evaluating several cyber security partners, they clearly stood out as the most reviewed and highly rated option. I would confidently recommend CommSec for their unwavering dedication, thorough validation, and expert skillset in enhancing our security.” – Paul Glynn, Chairman, Topform.
The Cyber Review Grant
Through the Enterprise Ireland Cyber Review Grant, which covers 80% of the €3,000 assessment cost, Topform underwent a rigorous yet supportive cyber security audit. The process was thorough but constructive:
- Objective & Transparent: The assessment highlighted vulnerabilities without assigning blame—allowing the team to acknowledge and address security gaps openly.
- Collaborative Approach: Instead of a cold audit, CommSec’s team guided Topform through the process, ensuring an educational and empowering experience.
- Validation & Assurance: While some weaknesses were uncovered, the review also validated Topform’s existing security efforts, reinforcing the measures already in place.
“The process wasn’t just about identifying flaws it reassured us that we had already made good progress. It provided clarity on where we stood and what we needed to improve.”– Paul Glynn, Chairman, Topform.
Meeting High Standards for Supply Chain Security
As a supplier to large multinational clients—many with turnovers in the €2-3 billion range—Topform understands that cyber security is no longer optional. Large enterprises expect rigorous security measures from their partners.
“Our customers hold us to the same high standards they maintain in areas like sustainability and corporate governance. Cyber security is no different. The tools and expertise are available to most businesses these days, it’s about making the choice to prioritise it.” – Paul Glynn, Chairman, Topform.
By strengthening their security posture, Topform not only protects their own operations but also reinforces their reputation as a trusted, resilient supplier in an increasingly digital world.
Final Thoughts: Why Every Business Should Act Now
Paul Glynn has a clear message for other businesses:
“Cybercrime is a multi-billion-dollar industry. If you think you won’t be targeted, think again. It’s like a street with 20 houses, if only four have security alarms, guess which ones are getting broken into first? Businesses need to take their heads out of the sand and act now.”
Topform’s journey proves that cyber security is not just a defensive measure, it is a strategic business decision. Their proactive approach, supported by Enterprise Ireland and CommSec, has placed them in a strong position for future growth.
CommSec, A Trusted Cyber Security Partner
David McNamara, Founder / CEO of CommSec, emphasises the value of the process:
“We were delighted to work with Topform on their Cyber Review Assessment. Their openness and commitment to improvement ensured we could deliver the best assessment and value for the client. The insights gained will serve as a strong foundation for their continued cyber security and business growth journey.”
