Polish food retailer ‘Karolina Shop’ have announced the closure of all stores in Northern Ireland, including it’s business in Ballymena located at Thomas Street.
According to the company’s social media information, Karolina International Foods Ltd was established in Northern Ireland in 2008, and grew to have the largest network of Polish shops, stocking a wide assortment of 3500 to 4000 Polish products.
Although the company did not give any detail in the statement on why it has decided to close, it is understood difficulties around importing goods under the NI Protocol arrangements, and wider competition from national supermarkets such as Tesco and Lidl, who have continued to broaden their range of European imported foods, may have had impact on trading conditions.
The statement from Karolina Shop said: “We would like to thank all our customers, contractors and employees for a long 13-year cooperation as well as the adventure we have experienced together over the years.
“At the same time, we would like to inform you that all Karolina stores have been sold or closed.
“Any questions regarding the further operation of the stores and availability of goods, please direct to the staff at place in shops.
“We wish you all a healthy and Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year 2022!”