20 new jobs created as Tesco opens first store in Kilkenny

Tesco Ferrybank has officially opened for business and is the very first Tesco store to open in County Kilkenny.

To date, Kilkenny was the only county in the Republic of Ireland without a Tesco story but that has all changed.

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At more than 3,800 square foot the new store promises customers a modern retail experience and a wide selection of quality fresh local and Irish produce.         

Local suppliers Flahavan’s, famous for its oats, and Hughes Agriculture and Farming who supply parsnip and carrots for stores nationwide, are among a host of local producers who will be found on the shelves in Ferrybank. 

Geoff Byrne, Chief Operating Officer, Tesco Ireland said that Tesco is 'very excited to open our doors here for the first time in Co Kilkenny in Ferrybank'. 

"This store is part of an €80 million investment across the country which will see the opening of new express stores, along with the upgrade of 50 other stores," he said.

"We have always had such a warm welcome from all the communities where we are now based, and we are committed to ensuring that our new stores play a big part in local communities for many years to come."

The new store was officially opened by store manager, Colm Cleary, who will lead a team of 20 colleagues.

At the opening, Colm Cleary said that 'this is a big moment for us in Tesco but particularly here in Ferrybank'.

"We can’t wait to welcome our new customers, and we really look forward to actively engaging with the community," he said.

"We’re really looking forward to meeting local groups and projects who need our support through the Community Fund over the coming months."

Tesco is a proud supporter of the communities it serves. To date its Community Fund has helped support thousands of organisations across the country from GAA clubs to children’s charities.

In its first campaign the Ferrybank store will support the locality with donations to three local causes which include Ferrybank Athletic FC, Ferrybank AFC Soccer Club and Ferrybank GAA & Camogie Club.

Through the food surplus redistribution programme, FoodCloud partners and OLIO Food Waste Heroes will be on hand to ensure no good food goes to waste.

The Ferrybank team will also join Tesco’s continued efforts to support its charity partner, Children’s Health Foundation which supports all sick children in CHI at Crumlin, Connolly, Temple St, and Tallaght hospitals.

The retailer recently rolled out its Clubcard Prices offering to Express format stores, which is proving to be popular with convenience customers.

Through Clubcard, of which there are over one million members, customers have access to exclusive deals on everything from everyday staples to treats, while also being rewarded with Clubcard points.