Up to 310 jobs have been created with the opening of three new Tesco stores in Galway, Mayo and Waterford.
New stores in Oranmore, Co Galway, and Ballybeg, Co Waterford, are expected to create 110 jobs each, while a new store in Swinford, Co Mayo will create 90.
Tony Keohane, Chief Executive of Tesco Ireland, said all of the jobs were permanent and will give a significant boost to local employment in all three counties.
He said the retail sector had a very important role to play in stimulating the economy at this time.
The openings are part of Tesco's national investment plan, which is expected to create 748 jobs in total.
15 new jobs will be created next week with the opening of a Tesco Express in Newcastle, Co Galway.
