M&S Ballymena expansion to bring job increase

Marks & Spencer is set to bring over 100 new jobs to Northern Ireland with the completion of an expansion programme at its Ballymena store in Fairhill Shopping Centre.

The number of employees at the Ballymena store currently stands at 106, and the announcement will take the number to 210 as a direct result of the ongoing development programme.

Work is well underway on the multi-million pound development bringing Marks & Spencer Ballymena customers a fantastic new shopping experience.

Neil Hyslop, Divisional Executive for Marks & Spencer Ireland launched the major investment programme in December 2003, to create a state of the art Marks & Spencer store which is due to be completed in August.

Mr Hyslop said: “We are delighted to announce this substantial increase in jobs resulting from the Ballymena development. This is a clear indication of our ongoing commitment to Northern Ireland and represents our part in the further economic development of the province.”

Ann Laverty, Marks & Spencer Ballymena Store Manager said: “The team at the Ballymena store will greatly increase as a result of this exciting development and the store itself will more than double its overall footage from 20,500 sq ft to 46,950 sq ft.

“Customers can look forward to a refurbished store which will include additional footage on the ground floor, as well as the introduction of a first floor level and will feature a new Café Revive coffee shop, together with increased footage on fashion, home, gifts and foods.

“The increased store team will continue to bring the Marks & Spencer philosophy of service and quality to even more valued customers.”

M&S first came to Northern Ireland in 1967 - paving the way for investment by many other top national chains into the province.

The firm currently operates eight stores in Northern Ireland.

(SP)