B&M Bargains to create 30 jobs in Ballynahinch

B&M Bargains to create 30 jobs in Ballynahinch

20 June 2018

BALLYNAHINCH is in line for a major jobs boost.

Discount retailer B&M Bargains has confirmed it plans to open a new store in the town in August with the creation of more than 30 jobs.

The retailer, which already operates a successful store in Downpatrick, is currently redeveloping the former SuperValu supermarket in Lisburn Street.

B&M Bargains operates more than 570 High Street stores across the UK and says it is delighted to be opening a new base in Ballynahinch, with the investment welcomed by local politicians.

A company spokesperson said it was “feeling really positive” about the creation of even more jobs for local people and hoped customers would welcome the new Ballynahinch store.

“We are all really excited to get the doors open and welcome our new customers in a few weeks,” the spokesperson added.

Job applications will be advertised shortly and will range from sales assistants to floor managers and cleaners.

B&M Bargains said customers in the Ballynahinch area can expect to find a wide variety of branded products including toys, food and drink, a pet range, health and beauty products and homewares. 

Newry, Mourne and Down Council chairman Mark Murnin and Rowallane councillor Billy Walker have welcomed the investment and the creation of more than 30 new jobs.

Cllr Murnin said that in addition to B&M Bargains opening its new store, a new laundrette will also open shortly in the town.

“There have been a number of delays associated with the new B&M store and it is good to see a vacant town centre property brought back into use again,” he said.

“There were concerns a tenant was not going to be found for this particular building,” he said.

Cllr Murnin welcomed the creation of new jobs and hoped the investment can lead to an increase in the number of shoppers to the town, providing a boost for existing traders.

“Some of these national chains may impact on local business to some extent, but the increased footfall they generate will hopefully negate that,” he remarked.

“I have been aware of this investment and discussed the new store’s recruitment needs with its officials.”

He added: “The creation of 30 new jobs is good news and we also have a new laundry business moving to the top end of the town which will also create a number of new jobs which is also welcome. It is all looking positive for the town.”

Cllr Walker believes the new store can attract more shoppers to Ballynahinch and provide a boost for existing businesses.

“This is a good news story for the town and many people will be delighted that over 30 new jobs are to be created,” he said.

“Perhaps the B&M Bargains investment will encourage other retailers to open new businesses in the market town, providing an added economic boost.”

Cllr Walker also hopes the green light will soon be given to start work on the proposed Ballynahinch by-pass, which, he says, has the potential to further assist the economic regeneration of the town centre.

He added: “Creating over 30 new jobs is a particularly welcome development and many people will be looking forward to the new store opening on August 17.”