A roundup of today's other business news in brief

Only 28% of SMEs use internet to sell goods and services

Although 83 per cent of small and medium-sized firms now have their own websites, just 28 per cent use the internet to sell their goods and services, according to new research.

A survey of more than 800 companies by business group Isme shows that 71 per cent of SMEs say they have gained additional business from being online. The study also reveals that most firms prefer using the internet for banking, communications, sourcing suppliers and marketing purposes rather than for generating new business. The main reasons given were broadband availability, standard and costs.

Anderson's offer of Oglesby & Butler

Investor Kevin Anderson has made a cash offer for Oglesby & Butler of €0.31 a share, valuing the firm at about €3.82 million. He acquired 2.3 million shares, or 19 per cent, on August 23rd, at 31 cents a share, bringing his stake to just under 49 per cent, requiring a takeover bid. Under takeover rules he had to offer at least 31 cents a share for the remaining share capital.

31 jobs for new plant in Little Island

Architectural and Metal Systems is to create 31 new jobs in Co Cork as part of an €8 million expansion. The firm is to open a new aluminium extrusion plant in Little Island. The plant is the first of its kind in Ireland.

The new investment is in addition to a previous €4 million spend on a state-of- the-art powder paint-coating line in the firm. The investment is being supported by the Government through Enterprise Ireland.

Aluminium extrusion is a process which produces lengths of precision aluminium profiles which are the essential raw material for aluminium window and door-makers, engineers and sign manufacturers.

The company, which was established in Cork 20 years ago, employs 66 workers making aluminium products such as curtain walling, window and door systems and related components.

Shareholders help Kerry’s bid for co-op

Kerry Group’s bid to acquire Newmarket Co-op got a boost after shareholders at the Cork-based co-op voted in favour of a rule change which allows the plc to proceed with an offer. Some 81 per cent voted in favour of the change at last night’s special general meeting.

Kerry is paying €421 a share, valuing the business at €26.6 million. It is also acquiring debt of €5.9 million.