A multi-million pound retail development in Omagh, by O’Kane Supermarkets, has reached full capacity with the arrival of fashion retailer Primark. The completed development, which received financial support from Danske Bank, brings over 120 jobs to the area.
O’Kane Supermarkets have completed the redevelopment of their existing SuperValu store in the town, and together with an adjacent site purchased from Omagh High School have created a brand new extension, which is now home to Primark.
The O’Kane’s SuperValu unit, which opened earlier this year, is located in a 70,000 sq ft. unit and is one of the largest independently owned supermarkets in Northern Ireland. Primark has taken occupation of an adjacent 45,000 sq ft. unit.
Diarmuid O’Kane, Director at O’Kane Supermarkets, said: “We first opened Omagh’s SuperValu in 1998 and it has served the local community ever since. We took the decision last year to move and upgrade the store to be part of a new retail development in the town centre. It has been open for several months now and is trading tremendously well.
“The arrival of Primark in our development means we are at full capacity and have the ability to offer shoppers the complete retail experience.”
He added: “Danske Bank’s support for this development has been exceptional. They have brought a wealth of experience and have shared our vision to offer a brand new retail experience to the people of Omagh.”
Mr O’Kane outlined the company’s future plans: “We want to consolidate the businesses we currently have without looking too far ahead. We have a strong ethos of selling local produce and we are keen to work with more local suppliers and build on existing relationships.”
Geoff Sharpe, Corporate Banking Manager at Danske Bank, commented: “The O’Kanes have provided retail services to local towns for over 15 years and this is a great example of a family run business that has secured employment for many people in the area. The O’Kane Supermarket Group have had the vision not only to expand their existing SuperValu unit, but to successfully attract a leading multinational retailer to their development, which will have a positive impact on the town centre.
“We are delighted to have supported the development of the project, and to further reinforce our commitment to supporting local businesses in the retail and commercial property sectors.”
