Harvey Norman to close Mullingar store amid Irish reshuffle
Up to 85 jobs at furniture company Harvey Norman could be affected north and south of the border as part of a business reshuffle.
But the organisation announced 32 positions could be created with a new store opening and an expansion in the online sales division, meaning some of those who face losing a job could be redeployed.
Around 45 staff members could be affected following the closure of a store in Mullingar, while the reformatting of the Dundalk centre and two shops in the Northcould see a further 40 jobs at risk.
Harvey Norman chief executive Blaine Callard said the Mullingar shop was no longer making enough money to stay open.
“While the closure of any store is naturally regrettable, it was simply not economic for the Mullingar outlet to continue in operation,” said Mr Callard.
“The company could no longer ignore the simple facts that the store in question was not trading at a level that justified continuing investment.”
However, he insisted overall revenue across the island is growing, which is reflected in the new store opening in Blanchardstown.
“Our move into online is about giving our customers convenience and choice about how they buy from us – it is all part of our Omni channel strategy,” he added.
The new Blanchardstown store, due to open in November, will create 14 positions.
A further four will be available through the launch of Harvey Norman Online, and an additional 14 as a result of the shake-up of the Dundalk and North stores, which will now focus on furniture and bedding.
