A SERIES of encouraging job announcements made on the Southside in recent weeks have been welcomed.
Last week, the Independent fund administration company, the Butterfield Fulcrum Group, announced it was expanding its operations in the city by a further 150 positions, bringing its total workforce to 250.
“This is fantastic news for the city and further strengthens Dublin’s reputation as the location of choice for the financial services industry,
? said Deputy Kevin Humphreys.
“The financial services sector forms a crucial part of the Government’s Action Plan for Jobs and this announcement shows that not only is this plan working, but that Dublin is attracting more investment as companies want to locate where global talent is converging.
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He added: “As we continue to implement our plan for jobs and growth, I will continue to work hard so that we can secure even more announcements like this for Dublin. I would like to wish the Butterfield Fulcrum Group continued success in Ireland.”
Meanwhile, 60 new jobs have been announced by the Kilkenny Group.
Over the past 12 months, the Irish family-run business has significantly increased its nationwide retail presence. The 60 new positions will be spread across sales, retail and administration in stores around the country as well as across Kilkenny Group distribution and online operations. By the end of 2013, Kilkenny’s total number of employees will stand at 275.
Since September 2011, the company has opened four new stores, in Stillorgan and Grafton Street as well as in Trim and Douglas, with plans to open a further three by the end of 2013.
Marian O’Gorman, CEO of the Kilkenny Group, said:
“As an Irish company, we are delighted to be creating such levels of employment despite the current retail landscape.
“Irish consumers are recognising the importance of buying Irish and there has never been a greater need to support indigenous craft and businesses. We foresee a number of factors as contributors to our growing business success over the next 12 months, including an increased number of suppliers in store as well as consumer support for brand Ireland.
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Also last week the Expert Hardware Group, with their headquarters in Inchicore, announced the creation of seven new stores to the group with a total of 46 new jobs, bringing the number of stores to 41 nationwide.
A further nine new store openings are forecasted in 2013.
Alan Grant, marketing director of Expert Hardware, said:
“We are delighted to announce these new store openings and jobs. In the current climate, we can never take our eye off the ball. Our industry remains volatile and it is our job to stay on top of our game. We offer value for money and excellent customer service while supporting local jobs in the community directly and indirectly.
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He added:
“Our ethos is very much based on expert service and advice. We have just partnered with RTÃ? One’s new daytime series
‘Today’ and will be providing DIY advice.
“This partnership reinforces our message, to provide real customer service to people across the country.
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Expert Hardware now has 41 stores throughout Ireland employing 355 people.