Tesco Ireland follows UK parent's lead

Tesco Ireland has reported a rise in sales of just under 10% to €1.9bn for the year to the end of February.

The supermarket giant also said it expected to create another 500-600 jobs this year to add to the 11,000 already employed with the company in Ireland.

Online shopping sales grew by 50% and there are now 110,000 online shopping customers while petrol sales at its two filling stations - including the first of its kind in Finglas, Co Dublin - have been 'exceptional'.

The company plans to open a further three petrol stations later this year.

UK parent company Tesco saw record annual pre-tax profits of £1.708bn (€2.57bn), a rise of 17.6% on the previous year.

Tesco Ireland was formed in 1997 following the acquisition of Power Supermarkets Ltd (Quinnsworth/Crazy Prices).