Mobile phone retailer 3G Mobile has gone into voluntary liquidation after attempts to secure new investment in the business failed.
Earlier this month, the chain confirmed the temporary closure of all its stores in Ireland. The company had 27 stores nationwide and employed 160 staff.
A statement from 3G Mobile chief executive Tony Boyle said the move was unavoidable, blaming extremely high rents and inflexible leases at a time of difficult economic conditions. The chain has stores in many leading shopping centres and prime city centre locations.
Mr Boyle also said that, as a result of the liquidation, Ulster Bank had been asked to appoint a receiver to 3G Mobile's distribution company Sigma Telecom, putting 115 jobs in jeopardy.
Sigma Telecom, which distributes mobile, fixed and broadband products, was 3G Mobile's main creditor and guaranteed a number of its leases.
Mr Boyle, who also heads Sigma Telecom, said that Sigma Wireless Communications, which provides communications products for the emergency services, would not be affected by today's developments.
3G Mobile has no link to the 3 mobile phone network, which is owned by Hutchison Whampoa.
