SuperValu tests c-store in Dublin

Irish grocer SuperValu has opened the first in a chain of city centre convenience stores in Dublin.

The shop is independently owned by Griffin Group, which operates four Centra c-stores in and around the Irish capital. Both SuperValu and Centra are Musgrave fascias.

Griffin has invested EUR3 million (£2 million) in the new store type, which will be able to trade for longer hours than a traditional SuperValu supermarket.

It also carries a comprehensive grocery offer, but, as is typical in the convenience sector, has a predominantly fresh-food emphasis.

The 7,000 sq ft (650 sq m) outlet is located on Aston Quay and will be followed by a further three SuperValu c-stores in Dublin as the retailer looks to strengthen its position there.

SuperValu managing director Donal Horgan said: 'City centre residents and commuters want quality, range, value and service without the hassle of additional travel to a big supermarket. Our new convenience supermarket format replicates the quality offering and value of the larger SuperValu formats, with the added convenience elements.'

SuperValu, operated by Musgrave, owner of Budgens and Londis in the UK, has 200 Irish stores and a 19 per cent market share. SuperValu is to invest EUR150 million (£99.2 million) in store development this year. It increased sales by 8 per cent last year to EUR1.67 billion (£1.1 billion).