Manufacturers Services, which employs 300 people in Athlone, has acquired IBM's fulfilment and integration operation in Charlotte, North Carolina, USA for an undisclosed sum.

Manufacturers Services is a privately held electronics manufacturing services company, founded by Irish entrepreneur Mr Kevin Melia, who is the principal shareholder, and now employs 3,000 people worldwide. The 250,000 square foot facility will support Manufacturers Service's international customers.