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GALA Incorporated, which was established in 1993, has become one of Japan’s largest operators of online communities. In 2000 the company was listed on Nasdaq Japan. In 2006 it acquired multiple Korean game development studios, and since then has been providing online game services worldwide. Following a strategic review, Gala–Net, San Jose, California was established in early 2006 to serve its US based online game users and has already exceeded expectations resulting in a large number of European customers downloading its games. To serve and expand its growing base of users in Europe, the company is establishing its European Headquarters in Dublin, and plans to hire 32 people over 3 years. The Irish operation will be a direct subsidiary of Gala-Net Inc.
Announcing the company’s decision to locate its European HQ in Dublin, Martin said: “Gala is a welcome addition to the thriving games industry in Ireland, and particularly in the Digital Hub in Dublin. The industry is a strategic target for IDA Ireland and we are becoming a location of choice for the world’s leading internet and digital content companies. The functions and responsibilities of the Irish operation will be in localisation, marketing and customer services for European users in each country’s local language – starting with German and French.”
Satoru Kikugawa, Chairman & Group CEO, Gala Inc said: “we are delighted with our decision to locate our European HQ in Dublin. Ireland has a strong internet infrastructure and a young, educated and creative population. There is a strong supply of software, localisation and technical expertise here which is essential for our potential growth and expansion in the European market.”
It is estimated that the European online gaming market is approximately 30% of the global market. With its group headquarters in Japan and group companies in Korea and the United States, Gala Networks Europe will be a significant player in the European Online Games market. © Copyright 2007 by Finfacts.com |
