Shannon Group plc experienced a fourth consecutive year of growth in 2018, with all three of its companies, Shannon Airport, Shannon Heritage and Shannon Commercial Properties, recording strong results.
In its best year this decade, Shannon Airport underwent growth of 6.5% in 2018, with its total passenger numbers exceeding 1.86 million. Meanwhile, operator of day- and night-time visitor attractions in Ireland Shannon Heritage saw visitor numbers rise 4.3% to a record 924,718, and Shannon Commercial Properties completed the €40 million first-phase of its ongoing investment programme at Shannon Free Zone, more than doubling occupancy rates to 94% since 2013.
"A Primary Catalyst For Economic Growth"
Shannon Group CEO Matthew Thomas commented, "2018 was a really positive year for Shannon Group. As a primary catalyst for economic growth for the west of Ireland and beyond, we fully understand that our improved business performance stimulates economic benefits both regionally and nationally. Shannon Group’s activities support 46,500 jobs annually. When we grow, the economy grows, and 2018 was our best year collectively across the group since its formation.
"We are set on an ambitious course, investing aggressively in our businesses to drive further growth in the years ahead. In tandem with this, we are fully committed to the National Planning Framework ambitions and have put in place measures to play our part in helping the government deliver on its promise of generating 75% growth outside of the capital by 2040."
© 2019 Hospitality Ireland – your source for the latest industry news. Article by Dave Simpson. Click subscribe to sign up for the Hospitality Ireland print edition.
