Rumours that Poundstretcher may take over disused unit

Leading UK discount retailer Poundstretcher is remaining tight-lipped about possible plans for a major store expansion project in Banbridge.
Could Poundstretcher be set to take over the disused SuperValu unit on Newry Street? Pic by GoogleCould Poundstretcher be set to take over the disused SuperValu unit on Newry Street? Pic by Google
Could Poundstretcher be set to take over the disused SuperValu unit on Newry Street? Pic by Google

Rumours are rife that the company is planning to extend into the adjoining disused SuperValu unit on Newry Street to create one of the biggest Poundstretcher stores in Northern Ireland.

Staff at the store said they are aware of the expansion rumours but couldn’t make any comment on the matter.

The Leader made a number of attempts to contact Poundstretcher for comment, but there had been no response at the time of publication.

Commenting on the possibility of Poundstretcher taking over the old SuperValu unit, Michael Donaghy, president of Banbridge Chamber of Trade, said: “We have heard the rumour, and if it is true the Chamber would welcome it.

“It may not be perfect to have three pound shop-type retailers on the main street - the Chamber would prefer a range of shops to improve the shopping experience - but it is considerably better than the current empty SuperValu store which had become an eyesore in the middle of the town.”

This isn’t the first time that rumours have circulated about the future of the prominent town centre business premises.

Late last year retail giant Marks and Spencer refused to comment on suggestions that it might be planning to open one of its Simply Food stores at the former SuperValu site.

At that time a spokesperson for the company said it “does not comment on rumour or speculation.”

Established in 1981, Poundstretcher now has more than 400 stores across the UK, selling a huge selection of products including kitchenware, bedding, bathroom products, furniture, electrical goods and children’s toys. The retail chain employs more than 6,000 people.

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