Barry's of Mallow plan new €10m distribution centre

Wholesalers Barry's of Mallow have announced plans for the development of a €10m distribution centre for chilled and frozen food.

The 60,000 square-foot centre will be an extension to the company's existing operation in Mallow, Co Cork. The first phase of the project, which will cost €5m, is due to begin in May and to be completed by October. The project is expected to create up to 75 jobs within three years.

Mr Jim Barry, chief executive of Barry's, described the project as being of "strategic importance" to the future of the company.

"The addition of chilled and frozen foods will bring a substantial competitive advantage to our business and our franchisees," he said.

Barry's was established in 1955 and currently employs over 200 people at its 100,000 square-foot distribution centre in Mallow. Barry's is a member of the Stonehouse Group and, more recently, Aontas, a buying alliance of Stonehouse and Superquinn.

The company acquired the Costcutter Franchise for the Republic of Ireland in 2000. The Costcutter brand originated in the United Kingdom and now has many outlets throughout Europe.

Barry's has an annual turnover of €180m, and has over 200 affiliated group stores under its Costcutter and Quik Pick franchises.