Irish security firm Netwatch has opened a new office in Chicago, creating 15 new jobs.

This recruitment drive will see Netwatch's workforce grow to over 250 employees.

The company expects there to be, "major demand for its new product offerings coming from Netwatch Visual Labs, which are based around mobile video protection of high-value goods and video based fire detection systems for warehouses."

Its new facility will serve as a global excellence centre for the company, focusing mainly on the areas of sales and customer support.

Netwatch expects to continue its international expansion and to create more jobs in Ireland.

This job creation drive follows Netwatch’s most recent funding round last year, which saw an investment of close to €20m which was supported by the Department of Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation through Enterprise Ireland’s investment in BDO's Development Capital Fund.

Speaking at the ribbon cutting event, An Taoiseach, Enda Kenny said: "Netwatch’s office opening in Chicago continues to demonstrate how a homegrown Irish company can compete on a global scale. In fifteen years, Netwatch has rapidly grown from its base in Carlow to work across four continents, and continues to conquer new markets. Netwatch and its founders have demonstrated how Irish innovation and acumen can set Irish companies apart on a global stage."

David Walsh, CEO, Netwatch commented: "Last year, we made a commitment to strategic expansion, investment, and innovation in 2017 – both here in Ireland and across the pond in the US. This commitment has already seen 35 jobs created here, and we are delighted to continue international expansion with our new Chicago office. This location will be of huge benefit to our customers, both in Ireland and in the US, and adds 15 further jobs to our already expanding workforce."

Established in Carlow in 2003, Netwatch uses advanced video processing technologies to proactively monitor and protect client’s properties and assets.