Published: Wednesday, 17th February, 2010 4:30pm

Mobile network 3 to invest €5m in expansion

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Mobile network 3 has announced that it is opening 28 new stores and creating 90 new retail jobs nationwide this year. 3 will invest nearly €5 million increasing its retail footprint with eight "own stores" and 20 independently-owned operations under the 3 brand.

The new retail outlets will significantly extend 3's reach across the country and will complement the existing 22 3Stores and 200 independent retailers which serve 3's growing customer base of over 470,000 users. The retail expansion programme has been designed to increase 3's retail footprint to maximum effect in the most cost effective way. This commitment by 3 underlines its position as Ireland's fastest growing mobile operator, market leader in mobile broadband and Ireland's largest high speed network.

Welcoming the announcement by 3, the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Mary Coughlan TD said: "90 new jobs and this major retail investment by 3 is welcome news for consumers and for the locations benefitting from more choice on their shopping streets. 3 has a significant role to play in terms of the quality service and competition it offers to the Irish consumer in the retail mobile market."

"The Government remains fully committed to the rollout of the National Broadband Scheme (NBS) to which it has committed almost €80 million to facilitate much greater access to this vital tool for domestic and commercial users alike," concluded Minister Coughlan.

Speaking at the announcement, Robert Finnegan, CEO, 3 said: "We're delighted to announce our major retail expansion following another successful year for 3. In 2009, we saw 40% growth in our customer base and our expansion plans reflect our ambition to further strengthen our position in the Irish market over the next few years."

Robert continued: "When completed, 3 will have 50 3Stores up and down the country, having invested millions of euros in the market and created over three hundred new jobs. Since entering the market in 2005, 3 has worked very closely with local independent retailers and we already have an existing presence in every county in Ireland. This is a sure sign that 3 is continuing to challenge the old networks by offering better value price plans and first-class customer service."