DSG Retail Ireland to increase store numbers

DSG Retail Ireland is looking to grow its network of Currys and PC World operations to 50 stores within the next five years in a move that would create close to 750 jobs.

This follows a decision by the group to rename all of its Dixons stores as Currys — mirroring a similar move in Britain two years ago.

The Dixons brand will be focused online as the company plans to launch Dixons.ie as a result of better broadband penetration and an increase in internet shopping in Ireland.

The move will bring the number of Currys stores in Ireland to 18.

Of that number 17 are owned by DSG and an eighteenth outlet, its first franchise store in Ireland, is based in Letterkenny, Co Donegal.

Managing director of DSG Retail Ireland, Declan Ronayne said the company is looking at appropriate sites around Ireland on which to locate future stores.

He said that if he was to look five years ahead he would envisage the company’s portfolio of Currys and PC World stores “to start with the number five”.

The company confirmed the first of these new Currys stores yesterday, which is planned in the Leinster area and will create 25 jobs.

Plans are also at an advanced stage to launch Dixons.ie, followed by Currys.ie and PC World.ie, which will be launched later in the year.

It said the Dixons outlet in Jervis Street shopping centre, Dublin will become a PC World store, adding that this will be the first time that the capital city has had this dedicated computer store presence.

Mr Ronayne said: “Retailers need a compelling offer to be available to customers online, in-store and for booking online and collection in-store.

“We intend to be the leading choice in all these electrical goods customer needs through our multi channel offer with Currys, PC World and Dixons.ie.”