DELL Computer Corporation's sales in Europe grew at three times, the market rate in the first quarter ending May 4th. All Dell computers sold in Europe are manufactured at its plant in Limerick.
Dell's business in Europe grew 38 per cent over the year ago quarter to £426.5 million ($644 million).
"The data speaks for itself. This is good news for our Irish activities," said Mr Tim McCarthy, sales director with Dell Computer (Ireland).
Dell employs 400 people at its Bray, Co Wicklow, office, where it manages sales to the Irish market and telephone based sales to Britain. The corporation employs 1,200 people in its plant in Limerick and has plans to employ a further 350 before the end of the year.
Last November Dell announced 500 new full time and 250 new contract positions in Limerick. Of these, 450 have been filled to date.
The first quarter results showed record sales for the 13th consecutive quarter. Sales increased 58 per cent to £1.72 billion ($2.6 billion). Profits after tax grew 141 per cent over the year ago quarter to £131 million ($198 million). Earnings per share increased 157 per cent to 71p ($1.08), compared to 28p (42 cents) a year ago.
Dell announced a two for one stock split, subject to shareholder approval at the annual meeting in July.
During the first quarter Dell advanced its market share in all customer segments and regions and is now the third largest personal computer systems company in the US and the world. Market share in the Republic is estimated by analysts at 17 per cent.
