Jobs boost with new stores at Junction One

The outlet and retail park has entered its second decade by announcing new tenants as well as lease renewals with core tenants.

£1.25million has been invested at the centre by new and existing stores, including the re-location, upsizing and expansion of a range of current stores.

The Antrim outlet shopping centre will welcome three new tenants over the coming weeks including UK home wares store Julian Charles, O’Brien’s sandwich café and Safari Grill, creating over 20 new jobs at the centre.

Core tenants Mountain Warehouse, Trespass, O2, Toytown and B&M Bargains have relocated within the centre and have doubled in size, while Starbucks’ recent relocation and expansion means it is now the largest Starbucks store in Ireland.

Sixteen core tenants including M&S, Next, Clarks and Adidas have agreed new leases.

Leona Barr, Junction One’s centre manager, said there was a real sense of optimism.

“We welcome visitors from all parts of Ireland who enjoy the quality and variety of the outlets, the great dining experience and, of course, the fantastic bargains,” Leona said.

She added: “2015 is an exciting year for Junction One.

“We have three new tenants opening before April and will be making more announcements in the coming months.

“The team has worked hard, consolidated and achieved substantial commitment from existing tenants, many of whom have been at the centre since its 2004 opening.

“Now, in Junction One’s second decade, we are building on those achievements and repositioning the centre to better reflect the wonderful fusion of outlet and retail shopping as well as its dining and recreational offerings.”

There are currently 70 stores at Junction One Outlet and Retail Park.

The complex welcomes over 2.5 million visitors each year and employs 1,037 staff.

Since opening Junction One has made a major contribution to Antrim town and the local economy, providing jobs and partnering with local charities.