A US technology firm is creating 109 jobs in Northern Ireland.
Kana Software is to open a new development, consulting services and technical support unit in Belfast in a £7 million investment.
The company acquired local firm Lagan Technologies last November and specialises in technology used in customer service. Its clients include Adidas, Nokia and eBay.
Chief executive Mark Duffell said: “We are delighted to be making this significant investment in Belfast, which becomes Kana’s leading international development hub, serving the needs of our global client base.
“Although Kana counts half of the Fortune 100 companies among its clients, the company is keen to increase its European footprint.
“The new unit in Belfast will also help us to target the European market and will become the focal point for the development, deployment and support of current and new technology, creating global opportunities for our business and our employees.”
Invest Northern Ireland offered £981,000 to help the company open the new unit. The combined business will trade from the existing Lagan Technologies centre, which has been headquartered in Belfast since 1994, but the workforce will more than double over three years.
Enterprise Minister Arlene Foster said: “Once again Northern Ireland is the location of choice for an international company seeking a cost competitive environment and a skilled workforce.
“Having evaluated other options including India, China, the Philippines and Eastern Europe, Kana Software recognised the value of our skills base, strong cultural links with the US and the support offered by Invest Northern Ireland.”
US economic envoy to Northern Ireland Declan Kelly welcomed today’s announcement.
“US technology firms continue to look to Northern Ireland as one of the premier locations in the world for inward investment,” he said.
“This is because the region offers a unique value proposition not available elsewhere including a highly talented and motivated workforce, world-class universities, and a supportive business environment.
“The ICT industry will continue to play a vital role in driving Northern Ireland’s future economic growth, and as we continue to see gradual economic recovery globally I believe more companies will continue to look to the region for expansion.”
PA