‘Built through years of hard work, commitment, and strong ties to the local community’: Larkhill Service Station, Portstewart and Stewartstown Supermarket, Dungannon have officially changed ownership, bringing both sites into the wider network of the Mallusk-based Henderson Group

Two well-known independently run Northern Ireland community stores have entered a new chapter after being acquired by Hendersons SPAR.

Larkhill Service Station, Portstewart and Stewartstown Supermarket, Dungannon have officially changed ownership, bringing both sites into the wider network of the Mallusk-based Henderson Group.

The move is part of ongoing investment in the local convenience retail sector, with both stores set to benefit from SPAR’s established brand, supply chain and wider product range.

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Owner of both service stations Trudy Morgan said she hopes the change will ensure both stores continue to serve their communities while also benefiting from the support and resources of a larger retail group.

Former tenant Desi Morgan confirmed the handover of the keys on Monday (April 27), sharing tributes to the businesses and their role within the community in two social media posts.

Reflecting on his time at Larkhill Service Station on Coleraine Road he said: “After many years building and running this store, today marks the end of a very important chapter.

Larkhill Service Station, Portstewart and Stewartstown Supermarket, Dungannon have officially changed ownership, bringing both sites into the wider network of the Mallusk-based Henderson Group. Pictured is the Larkhill Service Station handover. Credit Facebook

“What started as an opportunity grew into something much bigger — a place rooted in hard work, local support, and community. It has been a privilege to serve familiar faces and be part of daily life here.

“While it is never easy to step away, I’m very glad to see the business continue in safe and capable hands. I wish the new operators Hendersons SPAR every success as they take it forward.

“Thank you to everyone who supported us over the years.”

In a separate message about Stewartstown Supermarket, he added: “Today marks the end of an era. This store was built through years of hard work, commitment, and strong ties to the local community. It has been a privilege to serve, employ, and support so many people along the way.

“While stepping away is not easy, it’s good to see the business move forward with an established retailer like Hendersons SPAR who will continue to build on what’s been created here. Thank you to everyone who supported the journey — your loyalty and kindness will always be remembered.”

Part of the Henderson Group, Hendersons SPAR is one of Northern Ireland’s leading convenience retail operators, with a widespread network of stores across the region.