Hellmann Worldwide Logistics has entered the Irish market with a new national company and a branch at Dublin Airport that will offer air and sea freight, overland transportation and customs clearance.

This year Hellmann has set up national companies in Switzerland, Slovakia and Italy as it continues its expansion plan.

The company says Ireland is playing an increasingly important role in the European and global market due to the strong development of its economy.

Niamh Savage will head the Irish company, which will focus on the pharmaceutical and healthcare industries, as well as electronics.

"The opening of our new national company in the Republic of Ireland is another important milestone in our growth strategy towards a comprehensive European network,” says Jens Tarnowski, Hellmann Worldwide Logistics regional chief executive officer West Europe.

Hellmann Worldwide Logistics has about 14,000 employees and is active in 54 countries.