‘A significant milestone’ – first Tesco store opens in Kilkenny city

The first Tesco store in Kilkenny city has opened its doors to the public.

Kilkenny mayor Andrew McGuinness cut the ribbon on the opening of the new shop on High Street yesterday.

In a statement, Tesco said the “the exciting new addition to grocery shopping in the city marks a significant milestone for Tesco as it expands its presence in the region”.

The new city-centre convenience store has created 19 new jobs in the city.

Tesco chief operating officer Geoff Byrne said: “Following the opening of our first store in county Kilkenny at Ferrybank in November last year, we are excited to now have a presence in Kilkenny City. This new store is part of our ongoing investment in stores in urban centres, and we are thrilled to be joining this thriving local community.”

The new store features an in-store bakery offering freshly baked breads and pastries, coffee stations serving hot coffee, a Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) machine, and energy-saving doors on fridges.

Store manager Colm Cleary said: “We are so excited to finally open here in Kilkenny City. Our team has
worked incredibly hard to prepare for today, and we can’t wait to welcome our new customers to come in and get to know us.”

Tesco said it is “committed to giving back” to the local community.

A spokesperson said: “Three local community groups will benefit from our Community Fund, which aims to make a positive impact in the areas we serve. These include Johns Infants National School, Newpark Close Family Resource Centre and Clara GAA Club.

“Through the food surplus redistribution programme, FoodCloud partners and OLIO Food Waste Heroes will be on hand to ensure no good food goes to waste. The Kilkenny High Street team will also join Tesco’s continued efforts to support its charity partner, Children’s Health Foundation which supports all sick children in CHI at Crumlin, Connolly, Temple St, and Tallaght hospitals.”

IN STORE: Main picture, left to right, Tesco employee Elma Vrgoc, Mayor of Kilkenny Andrew McGuiness, Store Manager Colm Cleary and Tesco employee Nadia. Bottom picture: Store Manager Colm Cleary with Mary O’Neill and Orla Mackey from St Johns Junior School