'The store has a tremendous history and heritage': Northern Ireland retail giant acquires 100 year-old Co Armagh community store, retaining all 128 staff and planning major refurbishment

Henderson Retail Ltd, the privately owned family business based in Mallusk, has acquired Hunters of Markethill from the Belfast’s Creighton Group.

The transaction will complete on the May 5 and the store will become part of the Henderson Retail portfolio. The company plans to invest £2.5 million into the store in the coming months.

Hunters of Markethill employs 128 staff members, who will remain with the business after the transfer of ownership.

Commenting on the acquisition, Mark McCammond, managing director at Henderson Retail Ltd, said: “Hunters of Markethill has a tremendous history and heritage of providing significant local employment, supporting local suppliers and giving fantastic value and service to local shoppers for over 100 years.

“Our plan is to further strengthen that reputation with a significant investment to revamp the store and enhance the shopper experience. We will work with local suppliers to further extend the range of products and services particularly in the area of fresh foods.

“Our commitment to growing our fresh food offering has been a major strategic goal over the last 15 years and we seek to build on the excellent proposition already on offer in the store.

“As an award winning Community Retailer, we look forward to engaging with the local community and supporting local initiatives in the coming months and years.”

Niall Creighton and Gail Boyd from the Creighton Group added: “On behalf of the Creighton Group would like to thank all the staff, customers and the wider community of Markethill for all their support and take this opportunity to sincerely wish everyone, and Henderson Retail, every success in the future as they invest in and further modernise this wonderful store.”