New Balance says it is recruiting more workers at its British factory in Cumbria, which assembles 28,000 pairs of shoes per week, expecting more business following a new contract as the official supplier of shoes and apparel to the Irish Olympic Team. The deal covers the supply of high-performance apparel used in competition as well as warm-up and leisurewear for medal ceremonies, travelling and public appearances at 2014 Winter Olympic Games in Sochi and the 2016 Summer Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro. The American brand reinforced its image in the Republic of Ireland earlier this year through a new sponsorship deal with the Irish track & field team, replacing Asics.

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