This strong U.S. manufacturing presence has seen these subsidiaries utilize the favorable Irish labor market and tax treatment to supply the European computer and peripherals marketplace. Despite being very mature with all the major international brands having a market presence, the Irish computers and peripherals market continues to enjoy an average annual growth rate of 4 percent. Like most international markets, local computer hardware prices have fallen dramatically in recent years in response to competitive pressures and the drive to achieve market share. The substantial end user base in the industry and commercial sectors provides a large future market for computers and peripherals. Home PC ownership and internet usage are forecast to grow significantly in the near term.
Market opportunities exist for U.S. companies with innovative information technology products.
Irish agents and distributors are always seeking new and innovative products. The Irish software industry is comprised of over 620 firms employing almost 22,000 people in a broad range of activities including development and customization, localization and translation, production and distribution, and technical support. Indeed, some industry observers rank Ireland behind only the US as a software exporter. US firms account for much of this investment with over 30 companies, including Microsoft, Lotus, Motorola, Digital, Symantec, Informix, Sun Microsystems, Platinum, Novell and EDS having operations in Ireland. These companies not only republish and distribute software from their base in Ireland but also are involved in software localization, translating applications into the major European languages and packaging those products for sale.