PLANS by British home and garden centre chain The Range to expand into Northern Ireland could create hundreds of new jobs.
Its first location will be a new superstore in Ballymena, providing the area with 80 new jobs - but the firm said more stores were planned.
The new outlet will be situated in the Braidwater Retail Park at the former B&Q unit.
The store will feature a family café and job opportunities will be for both part-time and full-time positions in a range of areas, from warehouse assistants to store managers.
The Range is the brainchild of Plymouth-based entrepreneur Chris Dawson, who said he was looking forward to growing the business.
“We are really excited to begin our Northern Irish expansion in Ballymena,” he said.
“It is a great step in helping the business to progress and grow. We feel that The Range is a unique shopping experience that has something for everyone and are sure that the new store will be a welcome addition to the local area.”
Jim Allister, MLA for the area, echoed Mr Dawson’s positive message.
“I am greatly encouraged by the news that The Range, a UK leisure and garden retailer, will be opening its first store in Northern Ireland in the Braidwater Retail Park in Ballymena creating 80 jobs,” he said.
“Ballymena, and North Antrim, has been hit hard over the past number of years with significant businesses shutting up shop. It is good to see job creation and I wish The Range every success.”
The first branch of The Range opened in 1989 and now has 125 locations across Britain and Ireland.
