Graiguecullen Spar rolls out welcome mat to mark refurbishment anniversary
Mr Tayto arrives at the Spar in Graiguecullen to add to the festivities
A GRAIGUECULLEN shop rolled out the welcome mat in style earlier this month with a multi-week community celebration marking one year since its major refurbishment.
Spar in Shamrock Business Park, Graiguecullen officially kicked off its ‘Fresh Look, Fresh Fun’ relaunch campaign on Thursday 12 February, one year on from a €400,000 refit carried out in partnership with BWG Group. The store, which has served the local community since 2007, has been transformed into a modern convenience outlet with a spacious seating area, an enhanced deli counter, off-licence and a newly-launched fresh cream cake bakery range.
The celebrations got off to a memorable start, with the ribbon-cutting honour going to one of the shop’s most loyal customers, Rose Kenna, who is in her 90s. A live in-store broadcast with KCLR presenter Brian Redmond and a visit from ‘Mr Tayto’ added to the festive atmosphere, with customers enjoying hamper giveaways and exclusive promotions throughout the day.
The shop is owned by the Cantillon Group, led by company director Shane Cantillon, who brings more than 35 years of retail experience to the business. The group also operates two additional Spar stores and five Maxol outlets across Cork and Waterford. The Graiguecullen store employs 14 staff, and management is quick to credit the team’s loyalty and longevity as one of its greatest strengths.
Among those celebrated on the day was Breda, a team member who came out of retirement because, as the store put it, she simply “missed it so much” – and is now nine years as part of the Spar family. Special thanks were also extended to store manager Noel Kavanagh and his long-serving colleagues.
“We are incredibly proud of the team here,” management said. “It’s not just about enhancing the store for our customers – it’s about creating a great workplace for our colleagues, too, and a nice place for locals to meet for coffee and convenience.”
The themed Thursday events continue into March. Thursday 19 February saw a family-focused midterm celebration with Smooch ice cream giveaways, a visit from the Smooch cow, face painting and a colouring competition with toy store vouchers up for grabs. Last Thursday, customers enjoyed further hamper giveaways, ‘Spar Rewards’ sign-up support, complementary tea and coffee from 11am to 1pm, and tastings of the new fresh cream cake range.
The campaign wraps up on Thursday 5 March with a grand finale featuring ‘Spin & Win’ prizes, free Slushee Jacks, another hamper giveaway and half-price chicken rolls.
“It’s been a great year since our refurbishment and we’re delighted to continue investing in the area,” management added. “The atmosphere in store has been fantastic – bright, welcoming and community focused.”
