SuperValu Store Upgrade: Munster Growth & €7.5m Investment
SuperValu Tycoon Liam Ryan Invests €7.5m in Munster Supermarket Upgrades
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glanmire and Kilmallock Stores Set for Major Revamps as Retailer Focuses on Customer Experience and Future Growth
Businessman Liam Ryan is set to inject €7.5 million into upgrading two of his five SuperValu supermarkets in Munster,signalling a meaningful investment in the region’s retail landscape. The flagship SuperValu in Glanmire, Co. Cork, will receive the lion’s share of the investment with €5 million earmarked for a extensive “refresh,” while his Kilmallock, Co. Limerick outlet will benefit from a €2.5 million upgrade.
Glanmire SuperValu: A €5m Conversion for a Flagship Store
The Glanmire SuperValu, a cornerstone of the community since its opening in 2000, is poised for a considerable overhaul. This latest investment follows a significant €12 million expansion in 2010, which nearly doubled its size to 27,000 sq ft, making it one of the largest SuperValu stores in the country.
Liam Ryan confirmed that the extensive refurbishment will commence this year, acknowledging the need for a refresh after 15 years.”After 15 years, it needs a refresh and we’re currently finalising plans for that,” Ryan stated. The project will encompass the entire store, introducing a modern bakery, an expanded “food to go” selection, and a diverse range of “foods of the world.” A new sit-down eating area is also planned, enhancing the customer experience.
Flood Relief Works Pave the Way for Retail Revival
The timing of the Glanmire upgrade is strategically aligned with the completion of crucial flood prevention works in the area. Ryan highlighted how multi-million euro flood defense measures along the Glashaboy river have severely impacted local businesses, including his own, due to construction-related traffic delays and access issues.
“My takings have gone down by about 15% in the past year due to construction works which have caused many traffic delays and significantly impacted access to and from my business and several others in the adjoining Hazelwood and Crestfield shopping centres,” Ryan explained.
Despite the temporary downturn, Ryan expressed understanding for the necessity of the flood relief works, which are designed to protect over 100 households and businesses from future flooding events, such as the severe incident on June 28, 2012. The ongoing works include the construction of new riverside walls, pumping stations, and an elevated bridge to improve water flow.
With the upgrade of the main road junction connecting to the shopping centres nearing completion, traffic congestion is expected to ease considerably. Ryan is optimistic that this will encourage customers to return. “The investment I am planning in the supermarket is being timed to coincide with the completion of the major flood relief works in this area (Riverstown) and it will offer state-of-the-art shopping to my returning customers,” he added.
Kilmallock SuperValu: €2.5m Investment Planned for 2026
Along with the Glanmire project, Ryan confirmed a commitment of at least €2.5 million to upgrade his SuperValu outlet in Kilmallock, Co. Limerick.This project is scheduled to commence in 2026, following the completion of the Glanmire and other ongoing investments.
Broader Investment Portfolio
This latest round of investment underscores Ryan’s continued commitment to the SuperValu brand and the Munster region. He recently completed an €8 million investment in his SuperValu store in togher, Cork City, and a further upgrade at his grange, Douglas supermarket was completed just over two years ago. Ryan also operates a smaller Centra supermarket in Aherla, Co. Cork,demonstrating a diverse retail presence.