Tesco opens new store in Portlaoise creating 44 new jobs

The new superstore is over 10,000 square foot and boasts and in-store bakery, coffee station, DRS machine and free customer car parking.

The Gandon Court store will be managed by Denise Barry, a highly experienced store manager with over 20 years’ experience with Tesco Ireland.

Geoff Byrne, Chief Operating Officer, Tesco Ireland said: “This is store number 173 for Tesco Ireland, and we are very pleased that this latest one is in Portlaoise.

“We look forward to supporting the local community here through our community fund. We are continuing to invest in new stores in urban areas like Portlaoise, and we look forward to embedding ourselves into the community for many years to come.”

The new store was officially opened on Thursday by store manager, Denise Barry, who will lead a team of 44 colleagues.

At the opening, Denise Barry said: “This is a special day for my team and I. We can’t wait to welcome our new customers, and we really look forward to actively engaging with the community.

“We’re especially proud to meet our new friends in Scoil Bhride National School, who are participating in our Stronger Starts Schools programme. We’re also 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, added a spokesperson. “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 Gandon Court store will support the locality with donations to three local causes, these include Kolbe Special School, The Heat National School, and Scoil Bhride National School.

“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 Gandon Court 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.”