Portwest, an Irish company specialising in the design and manufacture of high quality work wear, has recently established a distribution centre and sales office in the UAE, servicing the Middle East and Africa.
Mr. Nigel Player-Bishop, Managing Director, Portwest Middle East said, "Portwest has achieved strong growth during the initial period in the UAE and we believe there is great potential in both the Middle East and Africa. We anticipate revenues of €2 million in 2014 rising to €6 million in 2016 and the increase in sales will create 15 new sales jobs here in the UAE, as well as 50 new jobs in the product development, marketing and financial departments at Portwest's Irish headquarters in Westport."
With global distribution bases in the UAE, the UK, Ireland, Poland and the USA, manufacturing facilities in the Far East and customer support staff in 74 countries, Portwest has a widespread global reach. The company has a team of world-class product designers, specialists in flame resistant work wear, high-visibility work wear, rainwear, protective footwear, hand protection and PPE. Portwest serves numerous industry sectors including oil & gas, mining & cement, service & hospitality industries, public & private sectors, transport & utilities, leisure wear & corporate, government, law enforcement & security.
Speaking from the United Arab Emirates during his trade mission to the Gulf region, the Taoiseach Enda Kenny said: "I am delighted to see the tremendous progress being made by Portwest, and wish them every success with their new office in UAE. This development will position the company to increase their export foothold in servicing the Middle East and Africa. This is an ambitious and innovative company and their continued success in these markets is based on their commitment to new product development and quality service. They are continuing to create jobs in Westport as they grow their international business and I extend all good wishes for further growth."
Speaking on the trade mission, Minister for Jobs Richard Bruton TD said: "This announcement by Portwest is very welcome and shows what is possible for Irish companies in this region. This is a highly innovative Irish company which is manufacturing high quality goods to high international standards, expanding into growth markets in the Middle East and Africa, and creating jobs in the west of Ireland. This is a great example of what we are trying to achieve through our Action Plan for Jobs. I wish all at Portwest every success with this project."