By Business & Finance Centra has announced that it recorded retail sales of €1.48bn in 2013, a 3.5% increase on the previous year’s performance. The leading convenience brand has also revealed that it will add approximately 400 jobs – as 20 new stores are added to its network – in 2014.
The brand also increased its overall market share in the convenience market, serving three million customers per week, further cementing its status as the market leader in the convenience market.
Centra’s growth was underpinned by sales of the Centra Own Brand range, which rose by 17%. The company also achieved record sales during the summer period and over the Christmas holidays.
Speaking today at the brand’s National Retailer Conference in Killarney, Martin Kelleher, managing director of Centra, said: “2013 was a very successful year for Centra despite the on-going challenges of the current economic climate. The increases recorded in sales and market share clearly demonstrate that consumers recognise the value, choice and quality offered by Centra. This performance was particularly driven by the Centra Own Brand range, in addition to new store openings and refurbishments.
“Last year, the Centra Own Brand launch was the biggest in Centra’s 35 year history, with a total of 800 products and an investment of €8mn. This range has proved highly popular with consumers, delivering a 17% increase in sales over the course of the year. A further 120 new products will be added to this range in 2014.
“Buoyed by our sales performance, our retail partners also invested over €7mn in new stores, extensions and refurbishments with 20 new stores and adding 45,000 square feet of additional retail space.”
He added: “In 2014 we will continue to lead the market by delivering real value to consumers, ensuring Centra is top-of-mind thanks to our headline grabbing offers and driving our Own Brand range. Added to this we will continue our support for communities across Ireland through our on-going partnership with the GAA and support for charitable causes such as Action Breast Cancer.”
With 465 stores, Centra employs almost 10,000 people and remains committed to local employment. Centra purchases from Irish producers, selling over €1bn of Irish goods, with 75% of all products sold in store produced or sourced in Ireland. This included €130mn of Irish fresh food, in addition to over €40mn spent by Centra store owners on products sourced from suppliers within their local community.
