Marks & Spencer is making a multi-million pound sterling investment that will more the double the size of its Ballymena store and create around 70 jobs, it was announced today.
The development in the Fairhill Shopping Centre is part of a £35 million investment programme by Marks & Spencer in Northern Ireland over the past 18 months, which has seen an expansion in Bangor and renewal at Foyleside, Newry and Newtownbreda stores.
Work is due to start soon with completion due in September when floor space will increase from 20,500 square feet on one floor to 46,950 square feet on two.
Mr Neil Hyslop, divisional executive for M&S Ireland said: "The announcement of the Ballymena store expansion is an indication of our ongoing commitment to Northern Ireland and we're delighted to play a part in the further economic development of the province."
He said the company was also making a €60 million investment in the Republic, incorporating new stores in Blanchardstown and Dundrum.
Store manager Ms Ann Laverty said the workforce would increase by around 70 per cent on top of the 106 full and part-time staff.
PA