New store brings jobs boost to Downpatrick

New store brings jobs boost to Downpatrick

5 October 2016

DOWNPATRICK is in line for a much-needed jobs boost.

Renowned High Street retailer The Edinburgh Woollen Mill opens its new store in Market Street this Friday morning, creating seven new town centre jobs.

The leading brand name — which has almost 400 stores across the UK and employs 1,600 staff — stocks a comprehensive range of men’s and ladies wear. 

Colin Davidson, The Edinburgh Woollen Mill’s area manager, said the organisation is  delighted to open a new store in Market Street.

“The new store will be a fantastic addition to the town’s existing retail offering with a superb range of clothing for men and ladies as well as a collection of gifts and accessories,” he said.

“We’re looking forward to welcoming locals to the store and have some fun activities planned for the opening day.”

Downpatrick councillor, Dermot Curran, has welcomed the opening of a new store in the town centre and the creation of seven new jobs.

“The new store is a real boost for Downpatrick and has the potential to draw more shoppers to the town centre which will benefit existing businesses,” he said.

“The fact another High Street retailer is investing in the town is great news and we hope others will follow suit to trade alongside many family-run businesses which have been at the heart of the town’s economy for many years.”

Councillor Curran said the fact several leading retailers have invested in Downpatrick highlights not only its continued commercial success, but the benefits major firms see in investing in what he believes is one of Northern Ireland’s growth areas.

“This latest investment which has created seven new jobs is tremendous news and will add to Downpatrick’s retail offering. We still have some vacant business properties and I hope owners can be found for these in the weeks ahead,” he said.

“The Edinburgh Woollen Mill is indeed a well known brand and not only will the new store  complement existing businesses, but certainly attract shoppers from all parts of the district to what is a county town.”

The new Downpatrick store will feature some of the retailer’s most sought after men’s and ladies wear including Country Rose, Isle, Honor Millburn, One Valley and PG Field, plus the latest gifts and accessories.

To celebrate Friday’s store opening, the first 20 customers to make a purchase will receive a goody bag containing a scarf, candle and shortbread. In addition, an in-store competition will reward 20 lucky visitors with a prize. 

The first visitors to find the envelopes hidden around the store will walk away with a voucher card to spend in store.