M&S to double size of Aldergrove Foodhall in major upgrade creating up to 25 new jobs

Marks & Spencer has begun work on a significant transformation of its Aldergrove store, with plans to double the size of its Foodhall, introduce thousands of new product lines and create up to 25 new local jobs.

The redevelopment, which is now underway, will see the existing store expand into the adjoining service station, delivering a larger, modernised retail space designed to meet changing customer demand and enhance convenience for shoppers in the area.

Store expansion under way with major Foodhall upgrade

The project will effectively double the size of the M&S Foodhall at Aldergrove, marking a substantial investment in the local retail offering.

Once complete, customers will experience a completely refreshed layout, including a significantly expanded in-store bakery and upgraded coffee-to-go facilities featuring two machines to improve speed and service during busy periods.

The transformation will also introduce a frozen food range to the store for the first time, alongside more than 2,000 additional product lines. These will include an expanded selection from M&S’s ‘Food to Go’ range, offering salads and sandwiches, with locally sourced options supplied by Newry-based Around Noon.

Wider choice and enhanced convenience for shoppers

The upgraded store will continue to provide a strong range of convenient meal options, including Collection Wood-fired pizzas and ready meals, supported by more than 100 ‘Remarkable Value’ everyday essentials aimed at offering trusted quality at competitive prices.

To improve customer flow and reduce waiting times, the redevelopment will also include additional self-checkout tills, while the store’s Click & Collect service will remain in place.

The changes are expected to significantly increase both product choice and speed of service for customers using the busy Aldergrove location.

New jobs boost for local area

As part of the expansion, the store is set to create up to 25 new roles, providing a boost to employment in the surrounding community.

Store Manager David Brady said the investment would deliver tangible benefits for both customers and the local workforce.

“We’re excited to be investing in our Aldergrove store and creating a bigger, more modern Foodhall for our customers. These improvements will allow us to offer an even wider range of great quality and trusted value food in a fresh, convenient environment, and will create up to 25 new roles right here in the local area.”

Part of wider M&S strategy to modernise stores

The Aldergrove redevelopment forms part of Marks & Spencer’s broader store rotation programme, which is focused on upgrading its estate with larger, more modern Foodhalls in locations aligned with customer demand.

The strategy aims to deliver fresher store formats, improved layouts and expanded ranges tailored to evolving shopping habits, particularly the growing demand for convenience food and high-quality ready meals.

The investment signals continued confidence in the Northern Ireland market, with the enhanced Aldergrove store expected to strengthen M&S’s presence in the region while offering a more comprehensive and efficient shopping experience.

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At a glance

• M&S is doubling the size of its Aldergrove Foodhall as part of a major redevelopment

• Work on the expansion has already begun

• Store will extend into the existing service station

• Up to 25 new jobs will be created locally

• Over 2,000 new product lines will be introduced

• Frozen food range to be added for the first time

• Expanded bakery and upgraded coffee-to-go facilities planned

• Additional self-checkout tills to improve customer flow

• Click & Collect service will remain available

• Part of wider M&S programme to modernise and expand Foodhalls