Iceland takes direct action in Ireland

Under the terms of the deal, which was for an undisclosed sum, all store staff have been offered the opportunity to transfer to Iceland.

Iceland’s chairman and chief executive Malcolm Walker, pictured, said: “We see great opportunities for growth in Ireland and taking direct control of these stores will help us to ensure that we offer the best value and the highest standards of service to our valued Irish customers.

“It will also help us to accelerate the expansion of the business, creating new Irish jobs, more opportunities for Irish suppliers and making our unique branded products available to more people throughout the country.”

Iceland has operated its own stores in the Republic in the past, but it withdrew when it needed to simplify the business in 2005.

“Now is the right time for us to return, as part of our international growth strategy that aims to make Iceland the world’s number one frozen food brand,” he said. The seven stores are located at Ballyfermot, Finglas, Navan Road, Ilac Centre, Coolock, Clonmel and Carlow.