'Delighted to help develop and guide its future': Former Northern Ireland retailer makes full-circle return as new shopping centre manager
Camlough native James Loughran returns to the shopping centre where he once ran his own business, taking over from Peter Murray who retired after 38 years at the helm
A Camlough native with almost two decades of experience in retail, property and operations has been appointed as the new centre manager of Buttercrane Shopping Centre.
James Loughran has taken up the role at the Newry shopping destination, bringing extensive knowledge of the local retail sector and wider business community.
The appointment marks a return to familiar surroundings for Mr Loughran, who previously ran his own retail business within Buttercrane before moving into property and asset management roles in recent years.
His combination of hands-on retail experience and expertise in property and operations will see him lead the next phase of development at the centre, which has been a key part of Newry’s commercial landscape since opening in 1988.
Mr Loughran succeeds long-serving centre manager Peter Murray, who has retired following 38 years of service.
Speaking about his appointment, Mr Loughran said: “It is a privilege to take on the role of centre manager at Buttercrane, a place with which I have a strong personal and professional connection.
“As a local, I understand the important role Buttercrane plays in the community, economy and everyday lives of people across the city and wider region.
“I am looking forward to working closely with our retailers, staff, customers and partners as we build on Buttercrane’s many strengths and prepare for the Centre’s next phase of development.
“I am delighted to have the opportunity to help develop and guide its future.”
Located beside the historic Newry Canal, Buttercrane has established itself as one of Northern Ireland’s leading regional shopping destinations, supporting around 900 jobs and contributing approximately £13 million annually to the local economy.
The centre currently has an occupancy rate of 98 per cent, with major tenants including Lidl, Sports Direct USC, Primark and Dunnes Stores.
Andrew Givan, director of Property Management at Lambert Smith Hampton, said Mr Loughran’s local knowledge and experience made him an ideal choice for the position.
“We are delighted to welcome James Loughran as centre manager of Buttercrane Shopping Centre,” he added.
“James brings considerable experience across retail, property, facilities and operational portfolios. Living and working locally also gives him an invaluable understanding of the local customer base and business community.
“His previous experience as a retailer within Buttercrane gives him particularly strong insight into the needs of tenants and customers.
“We are confident that his leadership, commercial knowledge and commitment to the area will be major assets to the Centre’s future development.”