The German spectacle manufacturer, Rupp & Hubrach, is to create 118 new jobs in Blessington, Co Wicklow, it has been announced. The new jobs are part of a £3.6 million IDA-backed investment spread over five years, with most of the jobs for technicians and operatives who will receive extensive training from the company. Recruitment of the management team has started and the company plans to be in operation by October 1998.
Rupp & Hubrach, a family-owned business established in 1922, manufacture plastic and glass lenses for spectacles and employ 500 people. One of the company's main suppliers is the Wexford company, Sola ADC, and the proximity to this supply source is understood to be one of the main reasons the company chose the Republic as the location for the new 12,830 square foot plant.
Meanwhile, a Scottish-company is to create 250 new jobs in Limerick, the Minister for State, Mr Willie O'Dea, said yesterday.
The company is to set up in the old Ferenka site in Annacotty, which is an IDA industrial estate. Initially 50 jobs will be created in late summer in the semi-skilled sector. AS expected to assist in the training of staff.
Mr O'Dea would not reveal the identity of the company, as the IDA is expected to make an announcement later this week. Minister O'Dea added the new jobs will be a great opportunity for unskilled people, as the opportunities are not normally available in this sector.
