Dairygold eyes development plans
The company said the construction of a co-op superstore was nearing completion. However, instead of the superstore designed originally, it will be utilised as one of the first in the co-op’s planned range of 4Home DIY and hardware stores.
The co-op said these stores will establish it as a lead player in the national DIY marketplace.
In addition, the Mallow site will also accommodate an agri-trading farm supply centre.
It is anticipated decisions will be made before year-end on how best the site might be developed to attract investment and significant new employment.
According to Dairygold, the co-op is keen to develop its landbank in Mallow in keeping with the overall development plan for the town and in consultation with the Town Council.
“A great deal of analysis, consultation and research will be undertaken in the coming months to ensure that any development proposed will add real value and make good sense for the town, Dairygold and for the creation of new employment in Mallow,” the co-op said.
The company is expected to report that a substantial turnaround is underway in its performance when it reveals its 2003 annual results today.
John Walsh, chairman, said Dairygold is now better positioned to go forward with confidence and consolidate its business.
The past year has been a traumatic one for the €1 billion turnover co-op.
It has implemented 500 redundancies at a once off rationalisation charge of €40 million, outsourced its transport operations and yogurt production and sold its beef processing plants at Kilbeggen and Charleville as well as five pig farms.
