Qatari tech firm invests €8m to establish foothold as Apple seller

Qatari-based technology retailer iConnect is set to make an €8m investment in the Irish retail market to become the Apple retail outlet of choice in Ireland.

The Al Mana Group- owned Apple Premium Reseller is set to launch its European delivery in Ireland in the coming months, before increasing its presence throughout Europe and expanding into the Middle East.

The company will open retail outlets in Liffey Valley Shopping Centre, Dublin, this weekend and in Whitewater Shopping Centre in Newbridge, Co Kildare, in two weeks’ time.

General manager of Al Mana Group’s technology division, John McEvoy, said that the company believes Ireland is the perfect testing ground for the company’s business model.

“We strongly believe that Ireland, as an English- speaking, pro-business economy within the eurozone, with a proven track record in IT sales and development and one of the most skilled and highly educated workforces in Europe, is the ideal launch-pad for our technology division,” said Mr McEvoy.

The outlets will follow the Apple model of a hands-on environment providing visitors the opportunity to test-drive the full range of Apple products.

IConnect will also offer regular in-store demonstrations and training to help customers get the most out of their purchases.

IConnect will open its first store on Saturday with a number of special offers and promotions available on the day.

Customers who purchase a Mac will receive 10% off their purchase on launch day, and there will also be special offers on a range of premium accessories.