Retailer Aldi says it will open a further 20 shops in Ireland over the next three years.
Each new shop is expected to employ 15 people. Included in the company's plans are new stores for East Wall Road in Dublin, Greystones in Co Wicklow, Tralee in Co Kerry, Ballybofey in Co Donegal and Charleville in Co Cork.
The announcement comes as the German discounter opens its 100th Irish outlet in Kilkenny today.
According to the latest grocery market figures, which are compiled by market research firm Kantar, Aldi saw 30.7% growth in sales for the 12 week period leading up to St Patrick’s Day this year.
It has increased its share of the Irish grocery market to about 6.2%.
Since 2008, the company has recruited over 60 new Irish suppliers, doubling its Irish supply base. It partners with over 125 Irish suppliers, producers and manufacturers, whose products account for over 50% of the groceries sold at Aldi’s Irish stores.
