APPLE IS to expand its presence in Cork, creating more than 500 jobs in what is being described as a “huge boost” for the country.
The technology firm is expected to construct a new office block to accommodate the additional staff over the coming 18 months.
Apple’s European headquarters is in Hollyhill, with the technology firm currently employing about 2,800 people at its distribution, supply chain and back-office operation there.
“Apple has been in Cork for over 30 years and we are thrilled to be expanding our presence there,” a spokesman for the firm said.
“Our plans will add over 500 new jobs to support our growing business across Europe.”
The company has been meeting Minister for Jobs Richard Bruton, department officials and IDA Ireland for several months regarding the project.
“The announcement that Apple, one of the world’s leading companies, is expanding its operations in Ireland and creating 500 new jobs is a huge boost for the country,” Mr Bruton said.
“It is a great testament to the company’s workforce, a great vote of confidence in the future of our economy, and it shows what is possible for Ireland at the heart of a stable Europe.”
IDA Ireland also welcomed the news, saying the investment would provide a significant boost to employment locally.
“This development continues the strong trend of investment over the past years in Ireland, in particular from global ICT companies and demonstrates Ireland’s continuing success in attracting FDI [foreign direct investment] additional investment,” said IDA Ireland chief executive Barry O’Leary.
Established in 1980, Apple’s plant in Hollyhill on the north side of Cork was the company’s first base outside the US.
In the mid-1990s, it was the main production centre for the Mac G3 and the iMac, Apple’s core products, and employed more than 1,900 people.
That production was later outsourced to plants in Wales and Singapore, causing the loss of 450 jobs and prompting predictions the company’s days in the city were numbered.
However, the success of the iPod and Apple’s resurgence saw staff numbers climb at the Hollyhill plant, and it now plays a major role in Apple’s supply chain in Europe, the Middle East and Africa. It also assembles the Mac Pro.
Fianna Fáil leader and local TD Micheál Martin said all involved should be commended.
“This announcement hasn’t come about by accident and there are many who will claim credit for it,” he said.
“The city and county managers must be commended on their hard work in providing the right conditions for the expansion as well as the IDA.
“Those who deserve most credit are the workforce and management of Apple in Cork who have demonstrated to their colleagues throughout the Apple organisation the quality, consistency and success of the company’s Irish operations.”
Local business leaders described the announcement as a major vote of confidence.
Cork Chamber president John Mullins said the expansion over the next 18 months, which will bring to 3,300 the number employed by the company was a significant boost.
“Apple is a global leader and a key employer in the Cork region and this announcement confirms it will have a long future in the city,” he said.
“This significant re-investment shows Apple’s confidence in Cork and Ireland and strengthens Cork’s well-established ICT sector.”
