SuperValu-Centra, part of the Musgrave Group, has unveiled plans to centralise its operations at a new development at Dargan Drive in Belfast Harbour Estate.

Ireland’s largest independent food and grocery retailer, SuperValue-Centra is to bring all the company’s administrative and distribution operations in Northern Ireland into one centre by the middle of next year. The company currently has facilities in Fortwilliam and Mallusk.

The custom-built development costing £20 million will comprise a 150,000 sq ft warehouse, a 35,000 sq ft chilled storage area, and 16,000 sq ft of administrative and other office facilities.

Boasting a state-of-the-art stock management system the centre will be at the forefront of the grocery wholesale market in Northern Ireland.

Nigel Briggs said that this business development cemented the company’s long-term commitment to the Northern Ireland market and paved the way for further investment in recruiting new independent retailers and servicing their business.

“While our business has already made strong inroads since we entered the market in 1996, significant opportunities remain for both the SuperValu and Centra formats in the Province. With strong retail supports, including buying power, distribution and marketing, the professional independents serviced by Musgrave SuperValu-Centra can compete effectively on range, price and service, while adding that extra local market knowledge and owner-operated personal service.”

SuperValue-Centra plan to expand their current operation, which at around 70 stores forms 10 per cent of the market sector in Northern Ireland, to 120 stores equivalent to some 15 per cent of the market inside the next four years. (SP)