Caffè Nero is to open a number of stores in Ireland, beginning with one at Merrion Row in Dublin 2. Two more outlets will follow shortly.

Aidan McDonnell of Colliers International, who is advising Caffè Nero, said the company would like to have about 12 stores altogether in the Dublin region including areas such as Dalkey, Donnybrook and Ranelagh. In the longer term, it planned to have about 50 outlets here.

The coffee chain prefers busy streets in buildings of character. The company is understood to have agreed a rent of €65,000 per year for the Merrion Row premises.

Hugh Markey of Lisney advised the landlord.