Athlone has experienced strong growth in the past 2 years, both in the retail and industrial sectors.

Over 28,000m2 [300,000ft2] of retail space has opened, with a number of leading UK multiples taking units in Athlone. An additional 9,300m2 [100,000ft2] is presently under construction with an additional 15,800m2 [170,000ft2] planned.

Retailers with a presence in Athlone include Woodies, B&Q, Land of Leather, Easons, Tesco, Dunnes Stores, Boots, Argos, Toy City, Lidl, Aldi, Pennys. Leading fashion retailers now include Wallis, Sasha and Vero Moda, Marks & Spencers, Next, Fields, Jack Jones, Monsoon, Principles etc.

Prime retail areas have seen a 48% increase in rents in this period, while secondary locations have remained generally static.

On the industrial front, over 6,503m2 [70,000ft2] of new industrial units have come on stream. This is in addition to continued expansion at Ericsson, Tyco Mallinckrodt, & Elan.  IDA Ireland has developed a 1,858m2 [20,000ft2] call centre now occupied by ICT Eurotel. Other call centres include One Direct, Alienware and AXA Insurance,

Industrial rents strengthened by 15% in 2000 with new units commanding an average of 54.60 euro per m2 [5.08 euro per ft2], although older units may still be had for 44.44 euro per m2 [4.44 euro per ft2].