RUSHMERE shopping centre in Craigavon has completed work on 7,000 sq ft of new restaurant space which will be home to global brands Nando’s and Five Guys, both of which are on track to open in October.
The investment dramatically increases the centre’s hospitality offer and it supports the creation of up to 100 new hospitality jobs.
Completion of the units marks a new milestone for Rushmere, which confirmed in January that it had secured letting agreements from the two family-style restaurant brands.
Nando’s, which currently has five outlets in Northern Ireland, is committing up to 40 new full and part-time roles for this latest venture, while Five Guys, which has its sole local outlet in Belfast, is bringing 60 posts.
Rushmere centre manager Martin Walsh said: “Our success is built on providing the best shopping experience and the right mix of retailers and catering provision, and I’m delighted that our growing number of visitors will now be able to enjoy new culinary experiences at these leading restaurant brands.
“By continually investing and delivering for our customers, we continue to increase Rushmere’s appeal and it's fantastic that so many jobs are being created as part of our strategic plans.”
Rushmere’s sole letting agent Savills acted on behalf of Rushmere owner Central Craigavon Limited. Lambert Smith Hampton acted for both Nando’s and Five Guys.
“This significant project cements our commitment to providing the very best one-stop retail, leisure and hospitality experience – all under the one roof,” Martin added.
Last year, international sport retailer Intersport opened its first new ‘concept' superstore at Rushmere as part of a £350,000 investment, creating 12 jobs.
Rushmere attracts more than 6.5 million visitors a year. The existing 350,000-sq. ft. centre and 120,000 sq ft retail park is anchored by Debenhams and Sainsburys.
Based in Craigavon for more than 40 years, Rushmere shopping centre is firmly established as one of the north’s top retail destinations.
