Online SMEs could create an average of 1.4 new jobs

Small businesses that operate online can expect to create an average of 1.4 new jobs per company, according to new research.

Communications Minister, Alex White TD said that small firms trading online experience a 21 per cent average sales increase, while almost three-quarters (71 per cent) of businesses surveyed expect to take on new recruits.

With Irish people collectively spending €700,000 online every hour, Taoiseach Enda Kenny TD believes this is an opportunity for new and growing companies that can’t be missed.

Mr Kenny was speaking on the issue of the 1,000^th Trading Online Voucher, which was given to John Lawton of JL Intelligent Cooling Systems in Kilkenny.

The Trading Online Voucher scheme was launched by the Government in 2014, offering small firms a grant of up to €2,500 – subject to matching funding – as well as training, mentoring and networking support to help them develop their online trading capability.

“Small businesses are the backbone of every Irish town and village and, with consumers across Ireland now spending almost €700,000 online each hour, trading online is essential to create new jobs, new business, and new exports,” said Kenny.

“As a small, open economy, our SMEs need to compete in a global marketplace and the Trading Online Voucher is one way for them to get ahead.”

A recent survey of 225 firms that had received Trading Online Vouchers revealed that 85 per cent experienced an increase in customer enquiries; 40 per cent generated new customer interest overseas; and 60 per cent stated that all new business was additional and simply added to existing customer sales.

“The report shows that seven out of 10 firms supported by this scheme expect to take on new staff to cope with the online business they have generated,” added White.

“With the potential creation of an average of 1.4 new jobs per company – in businesses that employ 10 staff or less – trading online is making a tangible impact on jobs and economic activity in Ireland.”

Last updated: 7th July 2015