Dell Computers has reported record revenues of $3.2 billion for its third quarter, a 58 per cent increase over the same quarter last year. The direct computer systems company, which employs more than 2,000 people in Ireland, has attained the number two market position in the US for the first time, after net income for the year rose 71 per cent to $248 million. Earnings per share increased 77 per cent to $0.69 compared with $0.39 a year ago, as Dell continued to grow at more than three times the industry rate on a unit shipment basis.

All of Dell's European products are shipped out of its manufacturing plant in Limerick which employs 1,800 people. The Bray, Co Wicklow-based sales and support facility has a staff of 450. The Irish operation contributed significantly to European quarterly revenues of $700 million, as Dell's European business grew 45 per cent, maintaining its position as the fifth biggest computer systems company in Europe.

"Ireland undoubtedly continues to be the engine room for Dell's European operations. This is Dell's number one employment base outside of Texas, and it is our focus to continue driving sales growth in Europe from Ireland," says Mr Tim McCarthy, Irish sales' director with Dell.

Mr McCarthy pointed in particular to the success of the direct sales business over the Internet. In the third quarter, the company continued to expand its Internet commerce operation with the Web site (http://www.dell.com) generating sales of more than $3 million per day.

"We continued to execute well in all key areas of our business, achieving a record return on invested capital of 178 per cent. Our strong results continue to differentiate us from competitors, several of which are attempting to imitate aspects of Dell's unique direct business model," said Mr Michael Dell, chairman and chief executive officer of the company.