Zyler launches 2-in-1 Digital Dressing Room

Zyler is a pioneering Virtual Try-On (VTO) company revolutionising the fashion eCommerce experience have launched launched a new solution which offers their flagship VTO product, the Digital Dressing Room, alongside Prime AI’s proven Size Recommendation (SR) tool. This will be an industry game-changer because it offers consumers both emotional, via the VTO, and functional, via the SR, ways to make the right purchase decision.

Fashion eCommerce return rates are scarily high, ranging from 25%, to as much as 60%. (Coresight Research 2023, Statista 2024). This is a significant pain point for everyone involved – from the customer, to brands, to the planet. From our internal research, one third of consumers say that the main reason they want to use VTO is so they don’t need to buy multiple items and sizes and then return unwanted products.

Powered by a proprietary AI and machine vision methodology, Zyler’s VTO product is both intuitive and easy to use. A seductive ‘Try it on’ button is easily implemented onto a brand’s website on its product description or listing page. And for consumers, they need only enter three measurements and upload one profile image before instantly seeing themselves in an entire brand’s collection. More than 75% of consumers describe the tool as ‘fun’ and ‘helpful’ which explains why, on average, they try on more than 60 products each time they visit a brand website.

Zyler developed this integrated solution because when they asked fashion customers what frustrated them most about online shopping, more than half complained about the difficulty of choosing the right size.

We are excited to unveil Zyler’s new 2-in-1 solution, which combines our Virtual Try-On with Prime AI’s Size Recommendation technology,” said Alexander Berend, CEO of Zyler. “It resolves two of the biggest challenges in fashion eCommerce — finding the right fit and making online shopping engaging and personalizedBy allowing customers to try on apparel and receive accurate size recommendations virtually, we are enhancing the shopping process, helping to reduce returns and increase customer satisfaction. This launch marks a major step forward in how consumers interact with fashion online, making shopping more fun, immersive, and efficient.

The size recommendation feature is powered by Prime AI, who were chosen as a partner due to their proven track record and the accuracy of their technology. “We are thrilled to partner with Zyler to accelerate the modernisation of the fashion retail industry using Artificial Intelligence technologies that evolve alongside the demands of online shoppers and retailers”, said Martynas Ragelis, Co-Founding Partner of Prime AI. “By providing sizing recommendations powered by our proprietary neural networks, we will help Zyler’s clients serve their customers better and enhance the overall shopping experience.”

The intelligent tool benefits both brands and consumers. Brands report boosted engagement and conversion rates of up to 18% and returns can be reduced by up to 26%. Also, Statista (2024) reports that less than 15% of European fashion consumers have experienced VTO, which means adding it as a service could deliver considerable competitive advantage.

For consumers, Zyler’s software offers a convenient, immersive and personalised shopping experience. 90% of users say that being able to try on many products instantly is of most value to them. Therefore it is the perfect tool for product discovery as it gives consumers a reason to return again and again to a brand’s website.

An open demo of the 2-in-1 tool can be experienced on Zyler’s site here.

PMI National Project Awards celebrate rising leaders and standout successes in Irish project management

The Ireland Chapter of Project Management Institute (PMI) announces the winners of this year’s PMI National Project Awards, in association with PwC. The winners of the 2024 Awards were announced at a black-tie event held at PwC’s Dublin office on Thursday 14 November.

These prestigious awards celebrate the significant contribution and excellence of project management in Ireland, showcasing the best in innovation and talent in the profession. As well as individuals and teams who demonstrate exceptional potential, dedication and success in their field, the annual awards – now in their eighth year – also highlight transformative and inspiring projects.

From the application of Robotic Process Automation in healthcare to a climate action strategy within the agricultural space, this year’s event celebrated project management across various industries and demonstrates the growing influence and success of project management in the Irish economy.

Amongst the individuals commended during the awards were five Under-35 Changemakers. Laura McDermott was the ultimate recipient. McDermott founded Colectivo, a project-based sustainability consultancy dedicated to driving impactful change by connecting visionary thinkers and practical innovators with organisations.

The awards add to the Rising Leader Award notably bestowed upon Sinead Gallagher, Director of Marketing and Communications for the Ireland Chapter of PMI, earlier this year at the 2024 Global PMI Professional Awards.

The full list of winners, chosen following careful consideration of a record number of submissions by an independent judging panel*, can be found below.

  • PMO of the Year (sponsored be Velopi) – Aerogen
  • Project Professional of the Year (sponsored by emagine) – Ian Fitzsimons (Project Management Consultant, Expleo)
  • Private Sector Project of the Year (sponsored by Expleo) – Primark: ‘Next Generation Global Wide Area Network Solution’
  • Public Sector Project of the Year (sponsored by Saros) – Health Service Executive (HSE): ‘The Cork University Hospital / Mercy University Hospital Paediatric Reconfiguration project’
  • Project Management for Social Good (sponsored by Irish Emergency Alliance) – ActionAid Ireland: ‘Together, we are stronger’
    • Under-35 Changemakers of the Year (sponsored by Ireland Chapter of PMI) – Laura McDermott (CEO, Colectivo) was the ultimate recipient in this category
    • Note, the following four were commended in this category: Kevin Quinlan (Data Governance & Quality Lead, ESB), Sean Higgins (Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) & Strategy Lead for Dublin Airport Authority), Rebecca Keenan (Global Head of Intelligent Automation Solutions Director, Expleo Group), and James Doggard (Senior Project Manager, KSN Project Management)
  • AI and Technology Project of the Year (sponsored by PwC) – Health Service Executive (HSE), Technology & Transformation: ‘Waiting List Batch Suspensions Automation, Galway University Hospital’
  • Special Category: Excellence in Innovation Projects of The Year (sponsored by Cornmarket and Ireland Chapter of PMI) – Teagasc: ‘Teagasc’s Climate Action Strategy 2022-2030’; and Health Service Executive (HSE): ‘Enhanced Community Care (ECC)’
  • PMI Ireland Volunteer Award – Mark Davenport
  • PMI Ireland Special Achievement Award – Jackie Fagan, Past President of the Ireland Chapter of PMI

Speaking about the awards, Peter Glynne, President of the Ireland Chapter of PMI, said: “Once again, we are delighted to be celebrating the individuals and innovations driving change. These are the people and projects which showcase the best of project management in Ireland and how it contributes to the country’s success both nationally and internationally. As well as bigger and more ambitious projects, this year’s awards were also bigger with more entries and categories than ever before – indicating a very bright future for Ireland.”

Keiran Barbalich, Partner in PwC Ireland and Leader for the firm’s Portfolio and Programme Management, added: “Success in project management is vital for our economy. Over a quarter of Ireland’s CEOs do not believe that their businesses will be viable in a decade without reinvention. AI and technology are at the centre of this reinvention, and with their technological expertise, Ireland’s project managers play a vital role in this transformation. We are delighted to sponsor the National Project Management Institute (PMI) Awards for the eighth year running and, in particular, to also sponsor the AI and Technology Project of the Year Award. We commend each and every one of the finalists and a huge congratulations to the winners.”

New LeanBPI report highlights appetite for digital transformation among small businesses

 LeanBPI, the Irish digital growth consultancy for SMEs and microenterprises, today announces the launch of a new report aimed at supporting the essential digital transformation of small businesses in Ireland. The report, “Exploring Technology Readiness of Irish Small Businesses”, was launched in the presence of Minister of State for Digital Transformation Dara Calleary T.D. It found a strong appetite amongst this cohort for digital transformation while also identifying challenges to its adoption.

Conducted in partnership with the LEO Network, LeanBPI surveyed owner-managers of microenterprises and small businesses across the country to determine their digital fitness level and identify their technology readiness profile, ranging from Avoiders to Explorers. This profile is then used to prescribe the best course of action in driving digital adoption for that business.

According to CSO data, there are nearly 350,000 businesses* of this size in Ireland, yet they risk being left behind as they often lack the in-house skills and budgets required for digital transformation. The report identified the need for tailored strategies to support them at various stages of readiness, focusing on customised training, promoting a culture of innovation to meet specific needs, and addressing barriers to technology adoption.

Highlighting the potential benefits of adoption, 87% of those surveyed said the digital technology that they used significantly enhanced their productivity. However, the need for support to maximise these benefits was clear as just 60% said they were satisfied with the digital tools they were currently using. Showing respondents’ desire to move with the times, nearly two-thirds (63%) cited relationships with customers, employers and peers as the main reason for adopting digital technology.

The report recognised the role of existing Government supports for driving digital transformation in small businesses. These include the Digital for Business initiative, as well as the Grow Digital vouchers, which provide grants of up to €5,000 for software subscriptions, training and configuration. Expanding on these, it recommended an adaptive policy framework to annually assess the effectiveness of current policies, as well as targeted data collection to inform future policies and tailored interventions that address sector-specific needs.

Co-written by LeanBPI managing director John O’Shanahan and Professor Anuragini Shirish, Institute Mines-Télécom Business School, France, the report was launched at Breaffy House Hotel, Co. Mayo by Minister of State for Digital Transformation Dara Calleary, TD, and John Magee, Chairperson, Local Enterprise Office (LEO) Network.

Commenting on the research, Minister Dara Calleary said, Small businesses and microenterprises are of huge significance to the Irish business sector. As Minister of State for Digital Transformation, it is very encouraging to see the enthusiasm that these organisations have for adopting digital tools, driven by Government supports. Knowing that through them, even businesses with only a handful of employees see digital transformation projects as realistic goals gives us confidence that the sector is ready to embrace the future.   

John Magee, Chairperson, LEO Network, “LEOs are working daily with small businesses to support their digital journey, which enhances their productivity and competitiveness, builds resilience and drives innovation. This report highlights that there is a genuine appetite among small businesses for digital transformation and emphasises the value of our Digital for Business and Grow Digital supports. While small businesses face constant challenges, there is relevant and practical support available from their Local Enterprise Office”.

John O’Shanahan, managing director, LeanBPI, commented, “What we see in this sector is a strong desire to transition into the digital world and seize the opportunities it brings. By collaborating strategically with all stakeholders and building on existing supports, we can help Irish entrepreneurs realise their businesses’ full potential. Together, we aim to make a meaningful impact at the local level, fostering innovation, resilience, and lasting benefits for communities while positioning Ireland as a global leader in small business digitalisation.”

Dell Technologies expands AI innovations at the Edge

Dell Technologies has announced upgrades to its Dell NativeEdge software, making it easier for businesses in Ireland to deploy and use AI at the edge. This  as companies increasingly generate and process data outside traditional data centres in the AI era.

Why It Matters?

According to Gartner report “by 2025, more than 50% of enterprise – managed data will be created and processed outside data centres or the cloud”. As data and AI workloads move to the edge, businesses need robust, connected and secure systems to manage AI models across various locations.

Dell NativeEdge advancements, part of Dell AI Factory capabilities, address these needs and offer organisations across Ireland AI software integrations and high-availability capabilities to provide more resiliency and reliability in the deployment and management of AI at the edge.

Boost Edge and AI Workload Efficiency with NativeEdge

Dell NativeEdge is a unique software platform that secures device setup at scale, offers remote management, and manages applications across multiple clouds. The new updates enable high-availability clustering for devices like Dell PowerEdge servers and OptiPlex workstations.

This means high-availability features ensure critical processes and AI workloads continue smoothly even if there are network issues or device failures. It easily handles changing workloads in environments like retail stores and utility companies and works seamlessly with Dell storage solutions to support AI model training and deployment.

NativeEdge AI Software Integrations Simplify Edge AI Deployments

Deploying AI at the edge can be complex and time-consuming. Dell offers over 55 pre-built NativeEdge Blueprints to automate and speed up this process, reducing manual setup and errors. The expanded catalogue now includes open-source tools that support continuous AI workflows for quick deployment of AI solutions.

Dell also offers services to help organisations design and develop custom AI solutions using NativeEdge software.

“AI is accelerating new edge workloads and opportunities at an unprecedented rate, and organizations across industries are asking for simpler and more reliable ways to use AI at the edge,” said Gil Shneorson, Senior Vice President, Solutions and Platforms, Dell Technologies“Our NativeEdge expansion automates the deployment and management of edge AI workloads, with features to support business continuity, so organizations can continually use the latest AI advancements at the edge to drive revenues and positive customer outcomes.”

“With over 1,000 IoT-enabled facilities, Dell NativeEdge helps us monitor real-time infrastructure elements, ensuring optimal conditions for our produce, and receive comprehensive insights into our produce packaging operations,” said Keith Bradley, Vice President, Information Technology, Nature Fresh Farms“Dell NativeEdge has enhanced our operational efficiencies and reduced costs, while supporting our continued growth and innovation in yield optimization and environmental monitoring.”

The Dell NativeEdge advancements will be available by January 2025.

The Gemini app is now available on iPhone

Today, Google is launching a dedicated Gemini app for iPhone, available for download in the App Store around the world. Now, you’ll be able to have easy access to Google’s personal AI assistant, right on your iPhone, free of charge.

Try the new Gemini app on your iPhone 

iPhone users can now experience Gemini in a whole new way with our dedicated mobile app. In addition to using Gemini through the Google app on iOS or a web browser, iPhone users can enjoy a more streamlined Gemini experience, with easy access to features that help improve learning, creativity and productivity. 

Here are just a few examples of what you can do in the Gemini iPhone app:

  • New: Have a free-flowing conversation with Gemini Live on your iPhone: Gemini Live lets you talk to Gemini in a conversational manner, including interrupting to ask questions or change the topic. It’s great for when you want to practice for an upcoming interview, ask for advice on things to do in a new city, or brainstorm and develop creative ideas. You can personalize Gemini’s voice by choosing from 10 distinct voices. Gemini Live on iPhones is available now in over 10 languages, with more coming soon. Note: Gemini Live is a new experience for iPhone users – it wasn’t previously available in the Google app or on a web-browser.
  • Study smarter with Gemini: Gemini makes learning easier, enabling you to ask questions about any subject and get tailored study plans. Gemini can also provide custom, step-by-step guidance that adapts to your learning style, and you can even test your knowledge with quizzes. For example, you can attach a complex diagram and ask Gemini to quiz you on it.


  • Generate dazzling images in Gemini: Imagen 3, our highest-quality image generation model yet, quickly transforms your text descriptions into stunning AI images. Whether you’re looking for the perfect image to share in your friends’ group chat or need a unique visual for a creative project, Imagen 3’s enhanced photorealism and accuracy can bring your ideas to life — even galaxy themed, almond-shaped nails — with incredible detail and vibrancy.

From left to right:  

A photorealistic baby hippo in an astronaut suit. 

A photorealistic image of a blue space-themed cake with planet decorations and the words “Happy Birthday” written in icing on the cake, with a galaxy background. 

An image of almond-shaped fingernails with a galaxy art nail design.

  • Access your favorite apps in Gemini: Gemini seamlessly connects with your favorite apps from Google. With Extensions, Gemini can find and show you relevant information from the Google apps you use every day like YouTube, Google Maps, Gmail, Calendar and more — all within a single conversation. 

Download Gemini, your new personal AI assistant

Gemini can help you write the perfect email or text, create stunning images, and brainstorm fun new ideas. Now available on both Android and iOS, the Gemini app puts the power of a true AI-powered personal assistant right in your pocket. You can try the Gemini app on your Android phone and download the app in the App Store today.

 

ADAPT Collaboration with Hayes Culleton to Revolutionise Collaborative Learning with AI Tools

ADAPT and Hayes Culleton recently completed a collaboration aimed at developing innovative AI-driven tools that enhance learning and collaboration. The project, led by Dr Liting Zhou from ADAPT at Dublin City University (DCU), focused on designing solutions for educational and training environments, with a global, all-female team of experts from four countries at the helm.

Hayes Culleton, led by founder and financial expert Susan Hayes Culleton, specialises in high-impact education, finance training, and innovative learning technologies. Through its proprietary platform, Active Peers AI, Hayes Culleton empowers teams and individuals to engage effectively in peer-driven learning, a key component of the new tools created in partnership with ADAPT.

Dr Liting Zhou commented: “This collaboration with Hayes Culleton has been an exciting opportunity to apply ADAPT’s AI expertise in real-world educational settings. By developing tools tailored for collaborative learning, we are breaking new ground in how teams and students can connect and engage meaningfully in both virtual and in-person environments.”

This partnership forms part of ADAPT’s broader mission to lead impactful change in educational technology, offering powerful tools that can transform learning experiences across diverse settings.

Top 7 Emerging Tech Startups in Ireland to Watch in 2025

Ireland is a tech wonderland, with new startups driven by innovation, investment and talented workers. With 2025 dawning, the Irish tech sector is changing rapidly, led by a new wave of startups. These companies push the envelope in everything from AI to blockchain and fintech to cybersecurity. They’re doing more than transforming old processes, they’re building the foundation for technology. These are the top seven Irish Emerging Tech Startups to watch in 2025.

7 Tech Startups to Keep an Eye on in Ireland 

Fenergo

This RegTech company is disrupting the status quo with its compliance platform for financial institutions. As regulations become more rigorous, Fenergo’s automated solutions are critical for banks and insurers to optimize human capital whilst reducing risk.

GridBeyond

GridBeyond, a leader in AI energy management, is transforming the way businesses source and use energy. Its smart grid tech helps reduce costs while helping Ireland meet its climate goals. The company’s data analytics also assist in forecasting energy patterns.

Axonista

Axonista’s interactive SaaS platform is transforming video streaming. As digital media consumption grows, Axonista helps brands create personalized and engaging content. 

Tines

Tines is an impressive startup that automates security operations. Tine’s platform allows teams to respond quickly to threats in the face of increasing cyber risks. Tines is special in terms of its simple but very useful tools. 

Nuritas

This biotech startup finds health-boosting peptides in foods with AI. Nuritas is accelerating research that would have taken years, using an approach that combines health care and artificial intelligence to create faster-acting products for wellness and pharmaceuticals.

Kiwibot

Kiwibot may not be Irish, but it has recently arrived in Dublin with its robots. They provide contactless deliveries — a service that will not go away following the pandemic. Dublin is Kiwibot’s European base, placing it well for expanding within the delivery industry.

Veracity

Veracity’s cybersecurity services have never been more critical, with cloud computing throughout the industry becoming commonplace. Their emphasis is on real-time monitoring to prevent data breaches before they occur. We can only expect Veracity to make its mark more relevant over the coming years. 

Importance of Irish Tech Companies Across Industries

Innovation in Gaming and Gambling

The gaming and gambling industries are getting redefined with the help of Irish tech companies. The advancement of new technologies that increase current engagement levels with interactive digital platforms and mobile access is transforming gambling, and the growth of the Irish online casino industry is reshaping perceptions and practices associated with it. As traditional casinos tussle against strong online competition, software developers bring gaming firms fun and engaging experiences, resulting in more users. 

Agriculture

Tech firms in Ireland are changing the game in farming with precision agriculture. They use IoT, data analysis, and AI to boost crop production, use resources wisely, and back eco-friendly farming.

Education

EdTech companies in Ireland are reshaping how we learn and teach. With interactive programs, online learning platforms, and digital classrooms, they make education more accessible and tailored for learners of all ages.

Retail

Irish tech businesses are helping retailers by offering cutting-edge cash registers, stock control systems, and CRM software. These tools streamline store operations and enhance the shopping journey. 

Healthcare

In the health sector, Irish tech companies are making a difference with digital health records, remote doctor visits, and diagnostic apps. These innovations support better patient care and more efficient health system management. 

Conclusion

The tech ecosystem in Ireland is booming, with new startups popping up specializing in fintech, energy, AI, and cybersecurity. These companies will feature heavily in the industry’s future as Ireland continues to cement its status as a tech hub. 

CEOs in Ireland upbeat on growth and profitability

CEOs in Ireland are upbeat about their growth prospects over the next 12 months in spite of global economic and geopolitical uncertainty, holding a positive outlook on profitability, access to investment capital and managing business costs according to the latest EY CEO Outlook, which surveyed 1,200 executives globally – including leading CEOs in Ireland.

CEOs in Ireland display a notable degree of optimism regarding the future of their businesses, particularly in light of the significant cost increases experienced over recent years. A majority (60%) are either very or somewhat optimistic about managing input costs and the overall cost of doing business in the upcoming year. When it comes to business growth prospects, the outlook is even more encouraging. Revenue growth and profitability are areas where optimism prevails, with 60% and 67% of CEOs, respectively, expressing positive expectations. The sentiment around investment capital and free cash flow is also upbeat, with 63% of CEOs positive.

This optimism amongst CEOs here is in line with international trends, where CEOs remain confident about economic growth prospects over the next 12 months. Nearly seven in 10 (69%) of the CEOs surveyed globally are feeling optimistic about the outlook for the coming year even as they continue to navigate the complexities of an unpredictable and volatile business environment, shaped by emerging technologies, shifting consumer behaviour and an uncertain geopolitical landscape.

Globally, shifting geopolitical disruption was cited as one of the top three disruptive forces over the coming year, however this ranked fourth amongst CEOs in Ireland, with AI and emerging technologies (44%), supply chain pressures (43%), and climate change and environmental issues (40%) cited as key disruptive forces. While the research was conducted in advance of the recent US elections, this points to a resilience and optimism of CEOs who have in many instances dealt with a decade of disruption and who remain optimistic for the future.

Helena O’Dwyer, Head of Strategy at EY-Parthenon Ireland, says “In spite of the many economic headwinds, uncertain geopolitical currents, and wider disruptive forces at play, CEOs here in Ireland and globally are upbeat about their firm’s performance over the coming 12 months.  Increasingly, we are seeing that CEOs are starting to shift from being reactive to proactive in a bid to get ahead. A combination of pragmatic optimism and a fear of being left behind is expected to drive investment and activity over the coming months.”

Carol MurphyEY Ireland Head of Markets, said “A CEOs mandate includes the responsibility to navigate the complexities of technological change with foresight and determination. Through this survey, we see that CEOs in Ireland are confidently combining smart technology investments with a strong emphasis on their people. They are also prudently enhancing the resilience of their supply chains and ensuring that environmental and social responsibility is ingrained in their core values. There is a real proficiency amongst CEOs today in harnessing disruption as a key enabler of business which is invaluable in the digital age.”

Increasing Optimism on M&A

This optimism on business performance is leading to an increasingly positive outlook on M&A from CEOs. Globally, a strong majority of CEOs (70%) say they are seeking M&A and transaction opportunities, signalling a determined drive for growth as interest rates and the cost of capital fall and inflationary pressures subside. There has been a noticeable increase in activity and positivity in the Irish market with 921 M&A transactions recorded in the 12 months to October according to EY Competitive Edge Research. Additionally, half of respondents in Ireland said they are considering strategic divestments, spin offs or initial public offerings (IPOs).

Helena O’Dwyer, commented, “The M&A market in Ireland has shown resilience over recent times, with a promising uptick in activity. CEOs should now focus on strategic agility, leveraging opportunities for growth through acquisitions, while also considering divestments or IPOs to optimise their portfolios in response to an evolving financing market.”

Talent Retention and Acquisition

Despite the substantial optimism among CEOs in Ireland, concerns remain over attracting and retaining talent. While over half of CEOs here (53%) feel confident they can attract and retain talent, this trails behind the global average of 70%. This reflects a tightening of the labour market at home and highlights a skills shortage in key sectors with the country at near full employment. Despite the recruitment concerns, almost two thirds of CEOs (63%) are confident in being able to offer competitive salaries.

Helena O’Dwyer says: “Despite some concerns over costs and margins, CEOs are mainly optimistic. They know that staying vigilant on costs is key to success. The talent gap is real, but it presents an opportunity to continue to innovate and invest in our people, making Ireland a magnet for global talent. By focusing on continuous learning and employee development and upskilling, we can turn challenges into a competitive edge.”

AI And Emerging Technologies Outweigh Geopolitical Concerns

When asked to name the top three disruptive forces poised to drive significant change in their industry and key markets over the next 12 months, Irish CEOs identified emerging technologies and AI at the forefront (44%), followed closely by supply chain pressures (43%), while 40% identified climate change and environmental issues as key disruptive forces.

This prioritisation of AI and technology reflects a growing recognition that it is not merely a tool for productivity improvement, but a strategic lever that can fundamentally reshape business models and customer engagement, ultimately driving competitive advantage. Interestingly, sentiment regarding AI and emerging technologies is more robust among CEOs in Ireland compared to global respondents, suggesting a proactive approach to integration and innovation in Ireland.

Eoin O’Reilly, EY Ireland Head of AI and Data, says “Understanding how to effectively utilise AI goes beyond surface-level implementation; it requires recognising the integral role of trust and the need to focus on commercial value, something Irish business leaders really appreciate. Over the past year, we’re seen our clients here in Ireland deliver remarkable outcomes from AI applications such as driving exceptional sales performance, enhancing patient care and boosting employee productivity”.

 To read the full report, please visit: ey.com/CEOOutlook.

eir Launches First Economic and Social Impact Report 2024

eir, Ireland’s leading telecommunications provider, has today released its first ever comprehensive Economic and Social Impact Report, which highlights that the company has invested almost €1.7 billion in telecommunications infrastructure in the last six years, supporting Ireland to become one of the most digitally connected countries in Europe.

eir has also announced a further €500 million investment to expand its fibre network across Ireland, reinforcing its commitment to enhancing nationwide connectivity.

The report has found that eir plays a pivotal role in advancing digital inclusion across Ireland, supporting €172 billion in digital economic activity with its expansive network. eir’s continued investments, in tandem with the Government’s National Broadband Plan, aim to ensure that by the end of 2028, every home and business in Ireland – covering over 2.4 million premises – will have access to high-speed gigabit broadband. This effort promises to bring transformative connectivity to communities nationwide, empowering Ireland’s digital future.

Key findings from the Report:

  • eir has invested €1.664 billion in Ireland since 2018, supporting substantial infrastructure development.
  • In 2023, eir’s capital expenditure was €288 million, consistent with previous years.
  • eir employs 3,170 people directly across Ireland, creating approximately 4,755 indirect and induced jobs nationwide.
  • eir’s broadband infrastructure underpins €172 billion in Ireland’s economic activity, essential to the country’s digital economy.
  • eir’s investments help Ireland rank among the top five EU countries in the Digital Economy and Society Index.

eir aims to provide gigabit fibre connectivity to 1.9 million homes and businesses throughout Ireland. To date, this network is already available to more than 1.3 million premises, with almost 500,000 homes and businesses now connected.

Speaking at today’s launch, Oliver Loomes, CEO of eir, said A digitally inclusive economy and society are crucial for Ireland’s future. With an additional €500 million committed investment in our communications infrastructure, eir is committed to strengthening this foundation. This report not only highlights our direct contributions to the Irish economy through employment and investment but also our broader impact in enabling the digital economy. Our extensive network infrastructure is essential to Ireland’s digital transformation, supporting both EU and national strategies that prioritise digitalisation for societal, economic, and environmental advancement. eir’s infrastructure underpins €172 billion in economic activity across Ireland.”

Also speaking at the launch of the report, Associate Professor Emeritus of Economics, Anthony Foley, of Dublin City University Business School, and author of the Report, “What we have found in conducting this research is that a cutting-edge digital network infrastructure is the foundation of a flourishing digital economy and society. The globalisation and FDI aspects of the Irish economy mean that broadband infrastructure and services, and international digital connectivity are significant competitiveness issues. Ireland is a very open economy. There is a continuing need to match, and ideally exceed, international broadband capability.”

The Report also underscores eir’s commitment to sustainability, with the rollout of a full-fibre network to 84% of Irish homes and businesses playing a pivotal role in reducing carbon emissions and improving network resilience against climate-related storms.

Through ongoing infrastructure investments, a focus on sustainability, and promoting digital inclusion, eir is shaping Ireland’s digital future and eir’s further €500 million network investment will fuel innovation, enhance connectivity, and create new opportunities for businesses and communities across the country.

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