Staying in is the new going out in these recessionary times, which might explain why cable TV provider UPC Ireland has been shifting so many digital video recorders recently.
UPC tells us that it has signed up 38,000 customers to the DVR box, which was launched in earnest last year and can record up to 80 hours of programming. It sold more than 1,200 boxes a week during the Christmas period. There's nothing like a omnibus edition of EastEnders to ward off those economic blues.
• In a sign of the times, communications group Financial Dynamics has set up what it claims is Europe's first restructuring and recapitalisation communications practice. It's not exactly a snappy brand but the group has already picked up gigs with AIG, Royal Bank of Scotland, Northern Rock and MFI Retail. Its Dublin office will no doubt be kept busy this year.
• On a more positive note, Wicklow-based Ruon Print has successfully come through a period of examinership and secured the funds to continue in business.
The printing group was acquired in December by Conway Holdings. It will continue for now to operate in Rathnew, employing more than 15 staff. It intends to add to its sales staff this month and move to a new premises in Wicklow town.
• In a similar vein, Louth-based Intact Software is planning to expand its business in 2009. It will relocate to a new site in Dundalk worth €1.5 million and is planning a €100,000 rebranding.
It also plans to add 10 staff to its 30-strong workforce by the end of next year and is targeting the Middle East for expansion. Who isn't?
• Gallows humour always abounds at times of depression. One marker-totting wag passing through Connemara recently decided to touch up a road sign on the main Clifden-Leenane road (see above). The village of Recess became Recess-ion. We don't know if the locals saw the funny side.
