A definitive guide to Ireland's top companies will be published by The Irish Times in May, in association with Business World, the financial data provider.

The leading 1,000 firms will be profiled in a 72-page review, based on information supplied by Business World.

Business World said the partnership would allow it to offer Irish Times readers an authoritative analysis of the corporate sector.

"We have vast experience in this area, and feel sure the publication now being prepared will set new headlines in quality," said Business World managing director Mr John McAleese.

The review will rank domestic and international businesses trading in Ireland.

It will list companies' turnover, profits, number of employees and principal activity. It will also include contact details and the names of chief executives. Comment and analysis will be provided by Irish Times writers.

Business World offers a database of 425,000 Irish-registered companies. The firm is recognised as one of the Republic's foremost providers of financial data, having been in operation for 14 years.

It also supplies news and marketing coverage through its website, which was recently redesigned.