Asos to create 184 new jobs in Belfast through the opening of new tech hub
Online fashion retailer Asos is to invest £14 million in a new tech hub in Belfast and create 184 new jobs in the city over the next three years.
The announcement was made by Northern Ireland Economy Minister Gordon Lyons who said the move was a clear vote of confidence for Northern Ireland and its appeal as an investment location.
Due to be operational in early 2022, the hub will offer 52 dedicated job roles in the first year, but this will grow to 184 by 2024. Job functions will range from software engineering to data science.
Cliff Cohen, chief technology officer at Asos, said: “Asos is a fast-growing business and constantly looking to innovate through our technology. As we continue to scale our investment in technology, we are looking to hire talent across engineering roles into our new tech hub, and help foster talent in Northern Ireland by supporting its growing reputation as a centre for tech excellence.”
The new hub is part of the company’s wider strategic plans for its tech team, which will support the continued growth and expansion of Asos.
Nick Beighton, chief executive of Asos, said: “As a rapidly growing business at the forefront of online retailing, we’re continually investing in our technology capabilities. Our new hub will provide us with cutting-edge tech expertise to support future growth. Belfast has a wealth of tech talent and we’re excited to be establishing a permanent base in such a vibrant city.”
To help secure the project, Invest Northern Ireland has been working with Asos since 2017 and has offered almost £1.2 million of support towards the new software engineering roles. In addition, Northern Ireland’s Department for the Economy is funding pre-employment Assured Skills Academy training of almost £1 million over three years.
Kevin Holland, Invest NI’s chief executive, said: “I’m delighted to welcome Asos to Northern Ireland. Securing this project is yet another tremendous endorsement of our compelling value proposition which includes our highly educated population, underpinned by some of the best educational facilities in the UK.”
