New jobs boost for Glasgow

A Regional Selective Assistance (RSA) grant of almost £2m has helped Hutchison Whampoa Ltd, parent company of Three Mobile, make the decision to extend its sales and support service hub in Glasgow.

The 381 posts in customer sales and support, many of which will be suitable for young people, will almost double the number of staff already employed at the St Vincent Street facility.

Planned support funding of £1.8m from the Scottish Enterprise RSA initiative and £270,000 from Skills Development Scotland to support a range of training opportunities for the new employees helped convince the company that Glasgow should be their first choice of location.

First Minister Alex Salmond had discussions with Canning Fok, Group Managing Director of Hutchison Whampoa Limited, during the his visit to Hong Kong last December. He described the news as a welcome boost for Glasgow.

“Three is a flagship company in telecommunications, with extensive global operations and a significant presence in Scotland already,” he said. “I am delighted they plan further investment and job creation in the city, delivering a great boost for Glasgow and the wider Scottish economy.

“The company's announcement of this new investment in Scotland is a strong reflection on the success of its current operations and its recognition of the skills of the local workforce.

“Jobs and economic growth are this government’s top priorities and announcements such as this one today goes to prove Scotland is open for business.”

Lena Wilson, Chief Executive of Scottish Enterprise, said: “We’re very pleased to have been a part of bringing this investment to Scotland. It’s testament to the quality and skills available here, and I’m particularly pleased that this decision will open up new employment opportunities suitable for young people.

“We look forward to continuing to work with Hutchison Whampoa in Hong Kong, and with the Three management team in Glasgow, to support them as they expand their operations in Scotland.”

Dave Dyson, Chief Executive of Three UK, said: “We’re delighted to be growing our presence in Glasgow to over 900 employees. We have ambitious plans for growth and the expanded team in Scotland has a huge role to play in realising them. Our team in Glasgow has helped make us the UK’s fastest growing operator. As we expand our operations the city’s can-do attitude has made it a natural choice.”