A family-run food business in Co Armagh is set for a major fillip - and to provide a boost for the local construction industry as well.

Chapman's of Armagh Road, Portadown is to invest £2.5m in its new 25,000 square feet food hall with employment increasing from 12 to 70 - on top of dozens of jobs being created in the construction phase.

The firm started with proprietor Brian Chapman selling fruit and vegetables from a trolley at the roadside some 30 years ago.

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Mr Chapman said, "We're proud that this development is by a local family firm. The high quality of our food range has attracted more and more customers, and their support has driven this expansion."

Work will start soon on the building, with the current premises being demolished. The new store will be ready in a year, with Chapman's trading from a temporary building in the interim.

Planning permission has just been granted for the development, which has been designed by Knightsbridge architects Farrell and Clark - and is said to be the latest landmark structure by the company.

(BMcC/GK)