SCANDINAVIAN homeware and interior furnishings retailer Søstrene Grene has opened its second Northern Ireland stores in the The Quays Shopping Centre, Newry.
The Danish retailer, who plans to open six stores across the north, already has a 4,512 sq ft Belfast store on Ann Street, which opened last year.
Søstrene Grene specialises in home interiors, kitchenware, art and hobby, party and gift wrap, toys, stationery and small furniture. The company already has 150 stores worldwide, with six in the Republic of Ireland and is targeting expansion of 100 new stores over the next two years.
The Newry store, which has helped to create a number of local jobs, is the second of six stores planned to open across Northern Ireland by joint venture partners Richard and Norma Power.
Ms Power said there was a gap in the market for Søstrene Grene following its success around the world.
“The retail market in Northern Ireland is already very strong and is forecasted to continue to grow," she said.
“With the Belfast store performing very well in its first year we are pleased to be able to bring the experience and goods that Søstrene Grene offers to customers in Newry. The shopping experience in each store is paramount to the brand and is the first of its kind in the city.”
Store manager Helen Markey added:
“We are delighted to have opened the second Søstrene Grene store in Northern Ireland in Newry. The Danish brand offers beautiful pieces at affordable prices suitable for gifts or treating yourself. It is also great to be able to offer jobs to local people.”
Model and producer Niamh Cunningham officially opened the store and Newry and Armagh MP Mickey Brady welcomed investment in the area and the creation of new jobs.
