UK discount retailer to enter Irish market

UK discount retailer Poundland is to expand into Ireland creating at least 180 new jobs, it was announced today.

The company, which has 347 stores in the UK, plans to open a number of stores in the country from October 2011 under the new brand name Dealz.

The company said the investment is worth over €2m to the economy.

Dealz plans to open at least six stores by the end of its financial year in March 2012.

Dealz is an integrated part of Poundland, with the same board and management team, led by Jim McCarthy. Its Republic of Ireland stores will be led by Irish management.

"Dealz will offer customers amazing value on an extensive range of products and we are confident that value savvy Irish consumers will love it," McCarthy said.

"We plan to support Irish suppliers by stocking locally sourced milk, eggs and many other products."