Slight increase in number of start-up companies compared to 2010

The number of Irish company start-ups in the first half of 2011 has exceeded comparable figures recorded for 2009 and 2010, according to figures released today.

According to the latest statistics on Vision-net.ie, 7,012 companies have been formed in Ireland this year (between Jan 1 and June 21).

This is already slightly up on last years total for the first six months of the year (7,009) and 2009's figure of (6,660).

On average, 280 new companies have been formed per week this year.

The most popular industries for start-ups this year include Business & Professional Services (23%), Wholesale & Retail (13%), Social & Personal Services (10%), Health & Social Work (7%), and IT (7%).