Wexford businesses will be one of the first to hear findings from a major study commissioned by telecoms provider Magnet. At a breakfast event on January 26th the company will, for the first time, present findings from the 2nd Magnet Regional Business, a nationwide study of over 500 SMEs by Amárach Research that investigates business, economic, political and technological sentiment.
Last year, when results from the inaugural study were presented, Wexford businesses were told that 62% of small firms in Wexford and the South East are optimistic about the future, with 1 in 13 planning to open new premises in 2015. However, they were also urged to become more active in availing of Government supports, with only 7% aware of the technology and business grants available.
Warnings of the cost of not embracing cloud technology were also revealed, as it came to light that only 18% of small firms in the South East had implemented a cloud solution of some kind for their business.
Madeleine Quirke, CEO of Wexford Chamber of Commerce said: “Magnet’s study is one of the largest pieces of SME research in the country, so we’re delighted to be able to present the findings relevant to businesses here in Wexford. As well as great networking opportunities, the event will enable those attending to gain an understanding of how others are adapting to the economic and technological challenges that exist for businesses in the regions.”
Speaking of the research Mark Kellett, CEO of Magnet said: “With a significant upturn in the economy in 2015 it will be really interesting to see if and how this has permeated into the regions. For the first time we’ll be able to compare attitudes year-on-year and see if businesses have followed through on some of the plans voiced last year.”
Magnet’s Office-in-a-Box solution for SMEs provides with an enterprise level phone system, unlimited broadband, phone calls, domain, hosting and internet security for €149.99 per month for up to 5 users.
“The Outlook for SMEs”, a networking breakfast, takes place on Tuesday, Jan 26th, at 7:45am in Ferrycarrig Hotel. Contact admin@wexfordchamber.ie for further details or to register, alternatively you can call 0539122226.