Lidl Ireland has appointed John Sisk & Son as main contractor for a new €75 million in a state-of-the-art extension of its regional distribution centre in Mullingar, Co. Westmeath.

The extension will support at least 1,200 construction jobs with local contractors throughout the development phase. The retailer envisages the announcement will be welcomed against the backdrop of the national economic uncertainty of the past year and a half.

The new development at Robinstown will increase the capacity of the facility by c. 15,000sqm. The extended facility will house the largest solar array of Lidl's properties across Ireland, providing enough energy to meet approximately 25% of the plant's energy requirements. Building on the retailer's sustainable building credentials, the project incorporates 25,000 sqm of new cold rooms cooled by natural refrigerants, heat recovery providing heating to the warehouse, and a pollinator-friendly area with wildflower planting to promote local biodiversity which is essential for the production of the fresh fruit and vegetables that Lidl Ireland is renowned for.

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As an essential business, Lidl has continued to be a solid resource for communities by keeping its doors open, shelves stocked and helping to support the livelihood of over 260 Irish suppliers including Westmeath-based Reilly Mushrooms who supply much of the retailer's mushroom range.

Lidl employs close to 400 people in Mullingar across two stores and its distribution centre. Lidl has further committed to support local Mullingar businesses and community groups by offering €15,000 worth of bursaries to those that align with the retailer's ethos. Community engagement and support during the pandemic as well as actively working toward a sustainable future are a requirement for those applying.

Donal McCarthy, COO, Ireland and Europe, John Sisk & Son said: "Sisk is delighted to be the main contractor with this new regional distribution centre for Lidl. This is a very significant investment by Lidl and will provide much needed local jobs in Mullingar. Sisk has been active in the Midlands recently having completed the state of-the-art Center Parcs family resort in Co.Longford. We look forward to working with Lidl and our local supply chain partners to leave a positive lasting legacy in Mullingar and the wider community."

Speaking about the announcement, J.P. Scally, CEO, Lidl Ireland & Northern Ireland commented: "We have a long-standing relationship with the local community in Mullingar and we want to continue to support them as we look to getting our economy back on track after what has been an incredibly difficult period for Irish businesses. The extension of our regional distribution centre will support those working in the construction sector, a sector that has faced many challenges these past months. We are very pleased to welcome our contractors on site as we start to redevelop our facility, ensuring we are investing in a sustainable future for our customers, our colleagues and the communities we serve."

Following the announcement of more than 1,200 new jobs earlier this year, the 'Top Employer 2021' certified retailer currently employs more than 5,000 people across its operations in Ireland, including its network of 168 stores, Dublin Head Office and 3 Regional Distribution Centres.