Software company Intact will add more than 180 jobs in Ireland and the UK over the next three years, nearly doubling its headcount as it plans to expand internationally.

The firm, which provides enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems for managing, automating and scaling operations to merchant, wholesale and distribution businesses, is based in Dundalk and opened its UK headquarters in Hemel Hempstead this week.

Intact's software is used across Ireland, the UK, parts of Europe, Australia and New Zealand by small and large businesses, and the company also has a network of channel partners implementing software solutions, including Micronet Solutions in Australia and New Zealand.

The new recruits will help Intact to facilitate enhanced client service locally as well as European and global growth planning, with the company targeting around 5,000 new users annually in its target verticals of product-focused distribution and wholesale business.

A number of the new roles will be filled via Intact's new graduate recruitment programme, Intact Ignite, each year.

In Association with

Intact acquired Ramtac, one of its UK-based value added resellers in 2016, and two thirds of revenue is now sourced in Britain.

Turnover at operating company Aptech Business Systems increased by 14% to €13.2m in 2020. The gross profit margin on Intact’s ERP activity increased from 51% to 61%, and overheads rose in tandem.

Government grants of €900,000 exceeded the company’s operating profit, though depreciation and amortisation came to €730,000.

Net cash generated from operating activities improved to €2.7m in 2020 from €670,000 in the prior year, and the company’s end-year cash position was €4.6m. Year-end liabilities amounted to €5.7m, up from €3.7m.

Chief executive Justin Lawless said the company's growth in the past 10 years had established a firm base from which it could roll out its services internationally.

"Organic and acquisition growth is planned, and will be expedited with partnerships too, leveraging our IP globally.  Complementary recruitment right across our locations will span roles from consultancy and software development to sales and marketing," he said.

Intact also opened a satellite office in Cork, with 20 staff. The company currently employs 184 people.

Photo: Justin Lawless, CEO of Intact.