The Northern Irish arm of grocery and convenience retailer Musgrave has plans to open up to 20 stores as part of a huge investment programme in the country.
According to the Irish Times, the retailer will also look to rebuild some 40 existing stores as it plans to spend £28 million on the deal.
It could potentially create a further 500 jobs in Northern Ireland.
'Ambitious, But Achievable'
Musgrave reported profit before tax of €84.5 million last year across the island of Ireland, and Michael McCormack, managing director of Musgrave NI, said the group results “provide a solid platform” to grow in the North.
“Our plans are ambitious but achievable. For us this is all about how we’ll realise our vision to redefine convenience in Northern Ireland,” McCormack said.
Musgrave said it’s “significant growth” in 2018 was greatly boosted by new introductions in its Northern retail chain.
Over the years the group has introduced an on-the-go coffee brand, a freshly prepared standalone salad bar, and more in response to consumer demand for healthier options.
Musgrave currently employs more than 1,500 people in Northern Ireland, operating SuperValu, Centra, Mace and MarketPlace brands in the North.
However, the Irish Times reported that the retailer is keen to find new independent retailers in the region to join its group.
© 2019 Checkout – your source for the latest Irish retail news. Article by Aidan O’Sullivan. Click sign-up to subscribe to Checkout.
