As St. Patrick's Day celebrations commence across Greater Manchester, the city-region reflects on the significant impact of Irish investments that have steadily strengthened over recent years. 

The investments from Buymedia, Galvia, H&MV Engineering, ClubZap, Uniquely and Version 1 represent an enduring partnership between Ireland and the North West of England, delivering sustained job creation and sector innovation across both regions. 

While the whole North West region has seen Irish engagement, Greater Manchester has emerged as a primary destination for Irish firms expanding into the UK.  

So let’s take a look at the Irish businesses who have recently become Greater Manchester residents... 

First up is Uniquely, a customer service and sales outsourcing partner from Galway has announced a £7 million investment in Manchester this month, creating 100 new jobs by the end of the year. The company provides service solutions across the Financial Services, Energy, Telecoms, Media, and Retail sectors.  

Also from Galway is AdTech innovator Buy Media, which has established its UK base in Manchester this year, bringing AI-driven advertising solutions to the UK’s most AI-ready city. The company chose Manchester for its tech ecosystem, media industry presence, and talent access.  

Dublin-based ClubZap has brought its sports club administration platform to Manchester. The technology simplifies payment collection for membership and fundraising while offering enhanced engagement tools that help clubs grow their local presence. 

Another Galway-based company is data analytics firm Galvia, which has selected Greater Manchester for its UK headquarters. The company helps organisations leverage data assets to generate revenue and drive engagement, serving both enterprises and higher education institutions. 

Dublin founded, Version 1, an Irish IT and digital transformation provider last week announced it will expand its presence at its key technology hubs in Manchester and other UK cities. With 1,000 new roles created across the UK, the majority of vacancies will be filled by AI professionals.  

H&MV Engineering recently expanded its Trafford office after just one year of operations. The energy sector specialist serves projects including the Stockport data centre development and has focused on local talent development, with six recent recruits being graduates, interns, or apprentices. 

These investments have delivered mutual advantages, enabling Irish companies to scale internationally while maintaining domestic headquarters. For Greater Manchester, the expansion has brought specialised expertise, job creation and strengthened economic ties. 

The continued investment from Irish companies reinforces Greater Manchester’s status as a key gateway for Irish businesses entering the UK market. 

Leader of Manchester City Council, Cllr Bev Craig said:

"Manchester and Ireland have a bond going back centuries to the birth of the Industrial Revolution, with the city's large Irish community at the heart of our history and cultural identity.  

“These investments from innovative Irish businesses are proof that the relationship has not only endured but evolved, with sectors represented ranging across financial services, digital, the creative industries and engineering - embodying the attractiveness of our city's vibrant business ecosystem, as well as the power of strong cultural ties to deliver prosperity for businesses and residents on both sides of the Irish Sea.” 

John Clancy, CEO of Galvia, said:

“Galvia chose Manchester as the hub for our UK business after considering several other locations but in the end the decision was an easy one.  

“Manchester has a connected tech and business ecosystem like no other in the UK, spearheaded by MIDAS. The enthusiasm, support and interest in helping us get established in Manchester was and is superb.” 

Fergal O’Connor, CEO of Buymedia, said:

"Manchester has proven to be the perfect launchpad for Buymedia’s UK expansion. The city’s vibrant tech ecosystem, deep-rooted media industry, and outstanding talent pool make it an ideal home for innovation. With the support of MIDAS, we’ve hit the ground running - connecting with forward-thinking businesses eager to harness AI-driven advertising to fuel their growth. 

 “Our mission is to empower companies of all sizes with smarter, data-driven media investments, and Manchester’s dynamic environment aligns perfectly with that vision. We’re excited for the journey ahead and the impact we can make in the UK market."   

Aidan Quilligan – ClubZap CEO said:

“Manchester was an obvious choice for us given the breadth of sporting participation in the region and the passion for grassroots clubs in particular. Throughout our market discovery activities, Manchester has consistently stood out as a vibrant and exciting place to do business, with a particular welcome for Irish companies looking to establish themselves in the UK.  

“The help of Midas and Enterprise Ireland has been invaluable in establishing ourselves and finding our feet. We look forward to working closely with them as we expand our operations within the region.” 

Please contact our team info@midas.org.uk if you’re interested in discussing expansion and investment opportunities in Greater Manchester.