Asos set to open Belfast technology hub in 2022
Online fashion retailer Asos is to invest £14 million in a new tech hub in Belfast, Northern Ireland and create 184 new jobs over the next three years.
NI Economy Minister Gordon Lyons says: “Today’s announcement is a clear vote of confidence for Northern Ireland and our strong appeal as an investment location.”
“The new Belfast tech hub and the creation of over 180 jobs represents a major investment in Northern Ireland by the company. In return, our talent base will provide it with the high quality engineering resources it needs to deliver its international growth plans.”
He adds: “Once in place, the new jobs will contribute almost £6.5 million in additional annual salaries.”
”Of the new roles, 130 will participate in my department’s pre- employment Assured Skills training programme which will offer the company a pipeline of skilled graduates over the next three years.”
Nick Beighton, CEO, Asos, comments: “As a rapidly growing business at the forefront of online retailing, we’re continually investing in our technology capabilities.”
“Our new hub will provide us with cutting edge tech expertise to support future growth. Belfast has a wealth of tech talent and we’re excited to be establishing a permanent base in such a vibrant city.”
The new hub will be operational in early 2022, with 52 dedicated roles in the first year, growing to 184 by 2024.
Recruitment is taking place across a range of levels and job functions including engineering and data science.
Cliff Cohen, Chief Technology Officer, Asos, says: “We are a fast growing business and constantly looking to innovate through our technology.”
“As we continue to scale our investment in technology, we are looking to hire talent across engineering roles into our new tech hub, and help foster talent in Northern Ireland by supporting its growing reputation as a centre for tech excellence.”
To help secure this project, Invest Northern Ireland has been working with Asos since 2017.
The agency has offered almost £1.2 million of support towards new software engineering roles and The Department for the Economy is funding pre-employment Assured Skills Academy training of almost £1 million over three years.
