New locations are now open in Sandyford, Co Dublin, Clonmel, Co Tipperary and Donegal Airport.

William Kiely (52) changed his plea to guilty on the 21st day of the trial

It comes after Austrian real estate conglomerate Signa, which had co-owned the company with Thai firm Central, collapsed into insolvency last year.

The plans will see the supermarket chain open 30 new locations around the country over the coming years

Kim Young and Reinaldo Seco, the couple behind the Misunderstood Heron based in Leenaun, are already seeing a boost in business following the investment which has seen them introduce energy and waste efficiencies and new kitchen equipment.

The investment announcement comes as a number of members from the US Delegation joined Mr Kennedy on a visit to Ulster University’s Belfast campus.

A total of 143 events have been hosted by the statutory agency over a five-year period.