Major developments for hi-tech firms

Two Irish tech companies announced major developments, with PCH International making an acquisition while Limerick’s AMCS Group secured a €23.5m round of financing.

An acquisition by Cork-based PCH International will allow the company to create the idea-to-customer system to manufacture and sell hardware products.

PCH International, which is owned by Cork man Liam Casey acquired a Toronto-based e-commerce platform, ShopLocket.

ShopLocket which was founded in 2011 by Katherine Hague and Andrew Louis, has built up a loyal community of “early adopters” who purchase new hardware products before they become mainstream. Acquiring the company will allow PCH and its hardware startup clients to set up physical pop-up stores.

AMCS Group who develop environmental software and technology secured a €23.5m round of financing.

The investment, led by global venture capital firm Highland Capital Partners (HCP) Europe, includes support from existing investor, Investec Ventures, through the Ulster Bank Diageo Venture Fund.

The fresh round of funding will enable AMCS to further consolidate its leadership position in international markets by funding further expansion in the Americas, Europe, Australia and New Zealand markets.

CEO of AMCS Group Jimmy Martin said that the funding will help the company grow and invest further in developing their software.