
The Rushe Retail Group has today formally joined the SuperValu and Centra network, which will see three new SuperValu stores open in Killiney, Dalkey and Naas, and a new Centra store open in Stillorgan. €1.25 million will be invested in the refurbishment and expansion of the stores, with particular focus on the Killiney & Naas stores. The four stores, which are owned by John and Marcella Rushe, employ over 200 people.
The addition of the Rushe Group will bring the total number of SuperValu stores nationwide to 201, with a further 24 Superquinn stores set to change their names to SuperValu’s in February 2014. The total number of Centra stores is now 466.
Commenting on the announcement, Shane Rushe, Operations Director, Rushe Group: “This investment will ensure that we provide our customers with the best offer in the marketplace by delivering excellent value and top quality food, while supporting Irish suppliers. We will expand our butcher and fishmonger counters, while upgrading our in-store bakeries. We will also be able to leverage the SuperValu and Centra brands by offering Own Brand ranges, which are up to 33% cheaper than equivalent brands.”
Martin Kelleher, Managing Director of SuperValu and Centra, said: “John and Marcella Rushe’s decision to join the SuperValu and Centra family reflects the momentum behind our brands. Over the past 10 years, SuperValu has grown by 30%, achieving annual retail sales of just over €2 billion. With the addition of Superquinn next February, one in four Irish consumers will shop at our expanded network of 223 stores. Similarly, Centra is Ireland’s number one local convenience brand, serving over three million customers per week”
SuperValu and Centra are committed to local employment and supporting local suppliers. 75% of everything on SuperValu and Centra’s shelves are sourced or produced in Ireland, contributing over €2.6 billion to the Irish economy and helping to sustain almost 30,000 Irish jobs in the farm, food and retail sector.