Retailer Roches Stores plans to shut three of its food outlets, throwing a question mark over the future of an estimated 160 jobs.
The group said yesterday that its Super Valu branded food stores at its Limerick branch and its food outlets in Blanchardstown and Henry Street in Dublin would stop trading in March.
In a statement, Roches Stores said it would accommodate "some" of the supermarket staff affected by the closures. Last night a spokeswoman was unable to say how many staff would be retained.
The company would not reveal the total number of staff working in the three stores. However, it is understood that the Limerick and Blanchardstown supermarkets employ between 60 and 70 each, while Henry Street has slightly fewer employees.
Roches Stores informed trade union representatives of its decision earlier this week. Its statement said that management would work with local staff and their representatives to make the most suitable arrangements.
Grocery group Musgraves owns the Super Valu brand, which Roches Stores operates as a franchise. Musgraves said yesterday that it planned to open five new stores in Dublin and three around the country this year. Two of its new outlets in the capital will be opened on Aston Quay and North King Street.
A spokesman said the company would advertise vacancies in the new stores to those working in the Roches Stores Super Valu supermarkets. The eight new franchises will employ 500 people.
Roches Stores said it was closing the food outlets to expand its fashion and homeware lines. Spanish label Zara recently opened an outlet in its revamped Henry Street store.
