B&M to open retailer’s first garden centre this weekend at The Junction in Antrim

Discount retail giant B&M is set to open a vast new superstore at The Junction Retail and Leisure Park in Antrim on Saturday 16 August, in a move that will bring 12 new jobs and the first-ever B&M Garden Centre in Northern Ireland.

The 40,000 sq ft store, occupying the former Homebase unit, has undergone a full internal and external refurbishment.

Spread across two levels, it will house an extensive range of branded groceries, homeware, electricals, DIY essentials, toys and seasonal goods, with the first floor dedicated entirely to home furnishings, soft furnishings and furniture.

Alongside the main store, a 10,746 sq ft garden centre will stock hundreds of plant varieties, outdoor living products, landscaping materials and gardening essentials — marking a significant addition to B&M’s retail offering in the region.

Part of a major retail destination

The Junction, already home to major brands such as Nike, Starbucks, Next and Omniplex Cinemas, has been undergoing an ambitious redevelopment programme in recent years to position itself as one of Northern Ireland’s leading shopping and leisure destinations.

The expansion of B&M is seen as a key part of that strategy, helping to drive visitor numbers, increase dwell time and further diversify the retail mix.

Retail analysts note that large-format value retailers such as B&M have continued to perform strongly in the UK, benefiting from consumer demand for competitive pricing amid the cost-of-living crisis.

The development is also expected to support local economic growth, not only through direct employment but also by attracting additional spending to nearby businesses within the retail park and Antrim town centre.

Grand opening event

Doors will officially open at 8am on 16 August, with launch day celebrations including live music from popular local singers Janet Boal and Wayne Rodgers.

The event is expected to draw significant crowds, with customers keen to explore the store’s opening offers and new product ranges.

A spokesperson for B&M said:

“We’re feeling extremely positive about the creation of more jobs for local people, and we hope customers are going to be delighted with their new store. We are all really excited to get the doors open and welcome new customers through the door.”

Retail expansion in Northern Ireland

B&M has steadily expanded its footprint across Northern Ireland in recent years, with its blend of branded products at competitive prices proving a popular draw.

The inclusion of the garden centre at The Junction reflects a wider trend in UK retail, where multi-category stores are increasingly integrating home and garden ranges to capture a broader customer base.