The Connacht Gold new ultra-modern multi-purpose store in Westport was officially opened on Saturday 24th March 2012. The co-op has invested €2.5 million in the expansion and redevelopment of the agri-retail store at the Lodge Road.
The impressive new state of the art facility consists of 25,000 sq ft of retail space, including an 8,000 sq ft garden centre. It will result in a doubling of employment by Connacht Gold in Westport, to 28 full-time and part-time staff.
“The new store will be a massive boost to our loyal farmer customers who have dealt with the store since it first opened in 1989. The service to these customers will now be enhanced greatly and the addition of an ultra-modern garden centre, household and DIY products, pets and pet care accessories will ensure that the Westport store will become a one-stop shop for households across the urban and rural hinterland” Padraig Gibbons (Connacht Gold Chairman) comments
“As a Westport person myself it is a particular pleasure to see this state of the art retail facility brought to fruition,” Padraig said.
Trading at the Westport site originally began in 1989 and since then a substantial and loyal customer base has being built up.
Under the direction of Connacht Gold retail branch manager Seamus Hastings and shop manager Alan Gibbons, the store will offer the highest possible quality, range and display of products as well as the highest standards of customer service. Seamus comments “after several years as manager and a total of 21 years in service in the Westport branch of Connacht Gold, it is now an exciting time for me and our business as we realise this expansion and move to a bigger and better future for all stakeholders, customers and staff alike”
A number of specialist staff has been recruited. They include horticulturist Paul Kirwan who is in charge of the garden centre and specialist Andrea Bennett who will advise customers on all aspects of pets and pet care.
A total of €70 million is the investment made by the co-op in recent years which has led to new markets, products and customers. Much of this investment has been in the retail stores.
The acquisition of the milk and retail stores business from Donegal Creameries at the end of last year increases the number of Connacht Gold retail and agri-business stores to 41 across eight counties in the Republic as well as Fermanagh and Tyrone in Northern Ireland.
The acquisition has brought total employment in Connacht Gold to 726 in 52 locations across the west and northwest. The co-op has 1,000 milk suppliers in 10 counties and is exporting dairy products to 20 countries.
“The acquisition is of major strategic importance and is a big step towards consolidating Connacht Gold’s consumer foods, dairy ingredients and retail stores businesses. It strengthens our position as the biggest multi-purpose agri and food business in the west and northwest with sales expected to reach €400 million in 2012” Padraig Gibbons added.
“This major new Westport facility is further demonstration of the commitment of Connacht Gold to providing the most modern facilities for its customers, shareholders and suppliers,” said Mr Gibbons.
Best wishes and continued success to all the management and staff at our new store in Westport.
Source: connachtgold.ie – Connacht Gold Westport Store Opens its Doors Following €2.5m Investment
