M&S announce multi-million Euro for the North
Marks & Spencer’s divisional executive for Ireland, Neil Hyslop has announced a €50m investment plan for the North.
The investments, which will create over 250 new jobs, cover seven stores, including three major redevelopments and extensions and a brand new Simply Food store.
Neil Hyslop said: “We are delighted to be reaffirming our commitment to Northern Ireland by investing over €50 million in seven different stores, especially as 2007 marks our 40th year of trading in the North.
"We’ve recently opened our 14th store at the Abbey Centre in Newtownabbey, which has been extremely well received, and have created a programme for next year that includes a mix of new stores and major redevelopments. We can’t wait to start work early in our anniversary year.”
One of the most significant elements of the investment programme will be the complete redesign and extension of the M&S flagship Belfast store.
The adjacent former Bank of Ireland unit will be incorporated into the store creating a 10,000 square feet extension that will allow for a larger Café Revive and a brand new Food to Go and Bakery Patisserie.
The store will be remodelled under M&S’ new signature style with brighter lighting, free-flow walkways and generous fitting rooms. The contemporary design will give the store a modern new look, and improved display equipment will lead to wider customer choice across all ranges.
