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Galgorm Collection acquires Galgorm Castle Estate and Roe Park Resort as part of milestone £50m investment
Landmark acquisitions and investment plans represent a major uplift and confidence in Northern Ireland’s hospitality and tourism industry
Go Succeed inspires Lisburn printer’s growth story
A Lisburn-based printer and branding company is set to expand after receiving financial assistance through the government-backed Go Succeed business support service.
Visit Belfast Welcome Centre marks two decades of award success at Northern Ireland Travel and Tourism Awards
Belfast’s Welcome Centre has been named ‘Best Tourist Information Centre 2024’ at the 32nd Northern Ireland Travel and Tourism Awards, marking twenty consecutive years that the facility has held the title of Northern Ireland’s top-rated information centre.
Visit Belfast celebrates ‘Best Event Destination UK’ win at C&IT Awards
Visit Belfast & ICC Belfast put the city’s best foot forward at global event industry’s premier awards gala in London
HNH Partners mark strategic growth success in Northern Ireland and Scotland with new brand reveal
Financial advisory firm HNH Partners, has unveiled ambitious plans for growth and team expansion, building momentum following a series of significant new appointments with a major stakeholder event designed to showcase its ambitious vision for the future.
Belfast secures Top 10 place in Global Sustainability Index for 2024
GDS-Index results for 2024 recognises Belfast as the most sustainable visitor destination in the UK and Ireland and ranks alongside Sydney, Singapore, Oslo and Copenhagen in this year’s official Top 10.
Platinum Financial Planning eyes expansion as it marks milestone
‘Best place to stay in Northern Ireland’ confirms December opening date for new accommodation which will create 14 new jobs
The Rabbit Hotel & Retreat Burrows into New Beginnings with a £2.5 Million Expansion
The Rabbit Hotel & Retreat in County Antrim has invested £2.5 million to expand its stylish guestrooms to enhance the property’s awarding winning facilities.
Mid-Ulster wellness business receives healthy boost from Go Succeed service
A Mid-Ulster entrepreneur is set to take her fledgling wellness business to the next level, moving into new permanent premises after receiving financial assistance through the government-backed Go Succeed enterprise support service.
Aflac NI marks five years of innovation and growth in Belfast
Aflac Northern Ireland, a subsidiary of Aflac Inc., a Fortune 500 company, has marked five years since it first opened its Global IT Cybersecurity Centre in Belfast, bringing good, high tech jobs to the region.
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Go Succeed injects growth into local aesthetics business
A Newtownabbey-based entrepreneur has launched a new skincare and aesthetics business, after receiving assistance through Go Succeed, the government-backed business enterprise support service.
Leaf IT boosts Ulster Rugby’s cyber ‘defence’
Ulster Rugby has successfully completed a significant project to boost its cyber defences in a partnership with leading Belfast-headquartered IT company Leaf IT.
New York to Newry – Local woman fulfils business dreams
A Newry-based entrepreneur has realised her dream of returning from North America to set up her own physiotherapy and Pilates practice, after receiving help through the government backed Go Succeed service.
NI financial advisory firm HNH appoints new partner to support ambitious growth goals
Pam Gillies joins HNH’s 28-strong team to support growing local client base and new client acquisitions.
Aflac NI to put ‘tech crowd’ to test at charity quiz night
Bragging rights will be up for grabs as Aflac Northern Ireland launches the inaugural “Tech Crowd” Quiz Night designed to bring the local technology community together to help raise funds for charity.
Armagh confectionary brand ready to taste ‘s’more success’
A Co Armagh based confectionary brand is aiming to expand its presence in Great Britain, the Republic of Ireland and beyond after receiving one to one mentorship from Go Succeed, the free enterprise support service, delivered by Northern Ireland’s 11 councils.
Entrepreneurs invited to make ‘Ultimate Pitch’ for business investment
Entrepreneurs from across Northern Ireland are being given the chance to secure up to £5,000 in investment for their business idea with the launch of Go Succeed: The Ultimate Pitch.
Belfast design studio’s Titanic impact on corporate sustainability
A Belfast-based sustainable design studio has launched a new project converting used textiles destined for landfill into high-end corporate merchandise for leading companies.
JN Wine uncorks growth plans after being named Northern Ireland’s best wine merchant for 30th time
Leading merchant JN Wine is set to embark on a major growth plan across Ireland and beyond after being named Northern Ireland’s best wine retailer for a record-breaking 30th time and the leading small independent merchant in the UK.
From Bali to Ballymena World Luxury Awards selects Galgorm as host
Galgorm, Northern Ireland’s globally renowned luxury hotel and wellness destination, has been chosen to host one of the world’s most prestigious hospitality award ceremonies, the World Luxury Awards 2024.
Social Enterprise NOW Group names Lidl Northern Ireland ‘Academy Partner of the Year’
Leading social enterprise NOW Group has named Lidl Northern Ireland as its ‘Academy Partner of the Year’ in recognition of its work in supporting people with autism and learning difficulties into retail careers.
Bradley Art Prize shines a light on Northern Ireland artistic talent as 2024 competition winners are announced
The winners of the prestigious 2024 Bradley Art Prize have been revealed. The competition, led by acclaimed Belfast artist Terry Bradley and sponsored by Telecoms and IT solutions provider Radius Connect, is designed to give young creatives a chance to showcase their work alongside some of the most respected names in the local arts sector.
Belfast celebrates double win at prestigious micebook awards
Visit Belfast and ICC Belfast have hit the top spot in two major categories at this year’s micebook awards 2024, recognising their commitment to delivering world-class events with excellence, innovation and impact.
Lidl Northern Ireland gives a £2m ‘Kickstart’ to local producers as fresh batch of suppliers are picked for development programme
Lidl Northern Ireland is set to give a ‘Kickstart’ to a new batch of 13 local producers from across the region who successfully earned a place on the retailer’s coveted Kickstart Supplier Development Programme – an initiative that the retailer has invested more than £2 million in to support 29 local agri-food producers and facilitate export of home-grown produce through Lidl’s international store network, boosting local businesses.
Galgorm invests £3 million to add new Forest Dens to luxury accommodation collection
Northern Ireland’s premiere luxury hotel, Galgorm has added a stunning new range of accommodation to its collection, with a £3 million investment
Visit Belfast unveils ambitious ‘New Horizons’ plan to accelerate city region tourism growth
New three-year strategy targets £424m economic boost that puts Belfast’s vibrant neighbourhoods in the frame to expand city’s wide tourism appeal
New report reveals Lidl Northern Ireland boosted local economy by a record £360m in 2023 as retailer marks 25 years in region
Northern Ireland’s fastest growing supermarket retailer announces investment of £150 million over next three years in expanding and upgrading its regional store network
Galgorm partners with Natural Spa Factory to unveil the essence of luxury with exclusive Cora product range
Galgorm, Northern Ireland’s luxury, premier hotel renowned for its immersive experiences, has partnered with Natural Spa Factory to introduce the bespoke Cora Collection.
Lidl Northern Ireland raises £1M for NSPCC
Lidl Northern Ireland and NSPCC Northern Ireland have celebrated a successful seven-year partnership in which the region’s fastest-growing retailer has helped to raise a record £1M, to help keep children safe across Northern Ireland.
Lidl Northern Ireland digs in to create new £7m flagship store in South Belfast
Lidl Northern Ireland, the region’s fastest-growing supermarket retailer, has started construction work on the site of its new South Belfast flagship store.
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Lidl Northern Ireland submits plans for new stores in Bangor, Craigavon and Dungannon
Lidl Northern Ireland has submitted planning applications for three new outlets at Bangor, Craigavon and Dungannon as the retailer continues to advance its ambitious plans to enhance and expand its growing store network across the region.
Galgorm Collection unveils groundbreaking new loyalty scheme in Northern Ireland: A new chapter in Luxurious Loyalty
Galgorm Collection, renowned for its legacy in luxury hospitality, has officially launched a new, groundbreaking loyalty initiative, Galgorm Rewards.
As the first of its kind for a Northern Irish independent hospitality group, this programme encompasses the Galgorm Collection portfolio; Galgorm, the Rabbit Hotel & Retreat, The Old Inn, and the esteemed Fratelli and Parisien restaurants in Belfast.
Galgorm announces new partnership with ELEMIS
Galgorm has announced an exciting partnership with ELEMIS, offering guests an extensive range of high-performance products and treatments exclusive to Galgorm’s spa.
As a leading luxury British skin wellness brand, ELEMIS is globally recognised for harnessing the power of natural ingredients and scientific innovation. Each ground-breaking formula is rigorously tested to ensure transformative results. ELEMIS maintains an unwavering focus on skin, body and wellness.
Marie-Thérèse McGivern appointed Chair of Visit Belfast
Marie-Thérèse McGivern has been appointed Chair of Visit Belfast, the city’s official destination marketing and management organisation.
The former Vice-Chair takes over from Kathryn Thomson, chief executive of National Museums NI, who was appointed to the role in October 2020. Kathryn will continue to serve as a member of the organisation’s 15-strong Board of directors.
Lidl Northern Ireland’s new £8m Strabane store opens 7 December
Lidl Northern Ireland will mark a key milestone in Strabane next week when it opens the new £8 million future-focused flagship store at Strabane Retail Park that will anchor its wider multimillion-pound investment plans for the site.
Backed by popular local broadcaster and singer Hugo Duncan, who will join Lidl Northern Ireland’s local teams to kick off the official opening celebrations on Thursday 7 December, the new store forms part of Lidl Northern Ireland’s longstanding commitment to drive a £26 million investment in the Northwest, create new jobs and support more local suppliers.
Lookers reveals all-new Nissan dealership in Sunderland after £1.8m investment
One of the UK’s leading automotive retail and service groups, Lookers, has officially opened a new Nissan dealership in Sunderland following an extensive £1.8 million transformation of its former Ford site on Newcastle Road.
Around 35 staff are now employed at Lookers’ newest franchise location.
Lidl Northern Ireland confirms plans for new £8m Cookstown store
Lidl Northern Ireland today confirmed plans to build a new, state-of-the-art supermarket in Cookstown as part of a £8 million planned investment, creating 18 additional jobs in the town and expanding its existing retail team to 40 employees.
Around 200 jobs will be supported during the construction and development phases ahead of its opening next year.
Lookers adds £2.5m investment to new Volvo site in Colchester
Lookers, one of the UK’s leading automotive retail and service groups, confirmed today it is investing £2.5 million to create a new state-of-the-art dealership at a new site in Colchester which will open before the end of the year.
Lookers said it is relocating to Wyncolls Road in Severalls Business Park in Colchester from its existing
Volvo site in Cowdray Avenue to develop a new standout dealership for the area. The new site was previously occupied by Underwoods Skoda until March this year and Lookers will remain open for business at Cowdray Avenue until the new dealership is completed.
Terry Bradley shines spotlight on young talent with Bradley Art Prize competition
Renowned artist Terry Bradley has launched the 2024 Bradley Art Prize giving hundreds of budding young artists a new chance to showcase their work in Belfast and Brussels and win a share in a total prize pot worth £4,000 for themselves and their school or college.
Following unprecedented success last year and specifically designed to help inspire a new generation of artistic careers, the Bradley Art Prize is officially back with a bang, supported by leading local IT and telecoms solutions provider Radius Connect for its second year.
Lookers’ BMW Crewe dealership opens after stunning £5.8 million transformation
A new state-of-the-art BMW dealership has officially opened in Crewe after Lookers revealed the stunning results of a major £5.8 million transformation of the site on Fourth Avenue off Weston Road.
The site, which closed for major construction works last year, now features the very latest showroom design associated with the German premium car brand, with each model proudly displayed in modern, state-of-the-art surroundings that includes loungelike seating, unique lighting and premium furnishings.
Lidl Northern Ireland puts Carryduff in its sights as work starts on new £6.5m store
The first phase of a multimillion-pound regeneration of the former Carryduff Shopping Centre gets under way this month as Lidl Northern Ireland moves to begin construction of a new £6.5 million anchor supermarket which will open early next summer.
The region’s fastest-growing supermarket confirmed today work will start within two weeks, injecting a new lease of life into the centre which has lain derelict for almost seven years.
Instonians Beds in home retailer Harry Corry to support rugby youth programme
Leading home retailer Harry Corry has joined forces with Instonians Rugby Club, providing top level support for its ‘Rugby for All’ Youth Programme to help support our future All Ireland League, Five Nations and World Cup champions.
Harry Corry has been supporting Instonians for over four decades but this latest commitment significantly upweights the retailer’s investment in the 104 year-old club, originally founded at the Royal Belfast Academical Institution, and specifically in its increasingly important youth outreach activity.
New Private Client Team launched at Davidson McDonnell
Leading Northern Ireland law firm Davidson McDonnell has officially launched a new Private Client team appointing ex-London partner Victoria Sterritt to lead the department.
Victoria is joined in the Private Client team by senior solicitors Rachael McKee and Sara Ord who both have more than 20 years’ specialist experience.
Frank Mitchell launches Lidl Northern Ireland’s annual Christmas Trolley Dash in aid of NSPCC
Lidl Northern Ireland has teamed up with renowned U105 broadcaster and former UTV presenter, Frank Mitchell, to launch the return of the retailer’s biggest and most loved fundraiser of the year – Trolley Dash. Now in its 10th year, Trolley Dash is Lidl Northern Ireland’s flagship fundraising event for its charity partner, NSPCC, offering customers the chance to win their entire Christmas food shopping for just £1, in aid of NSPCC.
With the festive season just around the corner, one lucky customer from each of Lidl Northern Ireland’s 41 stores across the region will win a supermarket sweep-style dash around their local store to grab as much of their Christmas shopping as possible in two minutes. In previous years, dashers have grabbed hundreds of pounds worth of treats and managed to tick off all items on their Christmas food shopping list.
Launch of New Irish Whiskey Brand Outwalker
A new name in Irish whiskey – Outwalker – is set to take the market by storm as it launches this week. Representing something genuinely different, this bold offering will stand head and shoulders above others in the sector with its distinctive taste and brand as ‘The Restless Spirit’.
Outwalker is a unique blend of Single Malt aged in white burgundy casks, Pot Still aged in ex-Oloroso Sherry, Grain aged in Virgin American Oak and Grain aged in Rye Casks.
Lookers spearheads fresh investment in Volvo with £2.3m in Chelmsford
Lookers has kicked off a £2.3 million investment programme to dramatically enhance its established franchised Volvo dealership in Chelmsford, Essex, as part of a newly-strengthened partnership with Volvo.
Lookers, one of the UK’s leading automotive retail and service groups, said today that the extensive programme works at Baynes Place in the city would create a bright, modern state-of-the-art facility that would put customers at the heart of an exciting and innovative retail experience that would perfectly showcase the dynamic Swedish brand’s growing portfolio of all-electric vehicles.
Belfast lands ‘world’s best conference destination’ for a third consecutive year
Belfast has been officially named the world’s best conference destination for a third year at the Conference & Incentive Travel (C&IT) awards in London, securing a record-breaking position that underlines the city’s strengths as a major international draw for business delegates and event organisers.
ICC Belfast, Northern Ireland’s only purpose-built international convention centre, was also a winner in the ‘Best Venue - UK’ category, the shortlist for which featured London’s ExCel and ICC Birmingham.
JN Wine named ‘best wine retailer in Northern Ireland’ by global wine brand Decanter
Leading wine retailer JN Wine is raising a special toast to new sparkling success after clinching two top awards at the UK wine industry’s annual retail excellence awards organised by global wine brand Decanter.
JN Wine, one of the best-known independent wine merchants, supplies many of the top hotels, restaurants and wine shops throughout the island of Ireland.
Lookers starts work on new £6m multi-franchise Car HUB in Middlesbrough
Lookers is on course to open ‘Lookers Car HUB’, a new multimillion-pound investment which specialises in multi-franchise sales, service, maintenance and cosmetic repair, with expansive EV charging facilities and an on-site ‘education and experience centre’ to support growing consumer demand and enquiries for all-electric driving options.
This new state-of-the-art facility will be based in Middlesbrough and will open later this year after getting the planning go-ahead from Middlesbrough Council. Lookers is investing around £6 million to create the future-focused, landmark dealership for the city and region.
eir evo delivers state-of-the-art Wireless Network for all Ulster University campuses in groundbreaking £6m investment
Ulster University has successfully completed a major £6 million digital infrastructure upgrade across all four Northern Ireland campuses thanks to its partnership with leading local telecoms and IT provider eir evo UK, fast-tracking its reputation as one of the best universities in the UK for WiFi and internet services.
Recently named among the top 30 UK universities in The Guardian University Guide, Ulster University enjoys a strong and growing national and international reputation for excellence, innovation and regional engagement and for its significant contribution to the economic, social and cultural development of the region.
Ardmore has been named People’s Choice UK Independent Agency of the Year at the Creativepool Annual 10th Year Anniversary Awards
Creative advertising and marketing agency Ardmore has topped the poll in this year’s Creativepool Awards 2023, securing a sought-after first-place position as the People’s Choice UK Independent Agency of the Year.
As one of the world’s most renowned branding and advertising annual awards, the Creativepool Awards celebrate the creative industry’s best achievements.
Belfast’s hotels go green in major sustainability shift
Following a groundbreaking partnership led by Visit Belfast, Belfast City Council and Green Tourism in 2021, hoteliers across Belfast are ramping up their green credentials at a record rate. Seventy five percent of the city region’s 4,800 hotel rooms are now officially accredited by Green Tourism, the global body which promotes sustainable and environmental standards across the sector.
More than 20 leading hotels, groups and brands, including Hastings Hotels, The Merchant Hotel, Bullitt Hotel, Andras House Hotel Group, Titanic Hotel Belfast, AC Hotel Belfast, Clayton Hotel, The Maldron Belfast City Centre, The Fitzwilliam Hotel, Hilton Belfast, the Leonardo Hotel, Malmaison Hotel, The Harrison, Radisson Blu and Ramada by Wyndham have all secured a Green Tourism award in a drive to support Belfast’s sustainable tourism mission.
Lookers unveils £1.8 million transformation at Kia Chester
One of the UK’s leading automotive retail and service groups, Lookers, has relaunched its Kia dealership in Chester following a major £1.8 million transformation of the site.
The redevelopment, which got under way in March, encompassed a full internal refit as well as the introduction of a new indoor handover bay and exterior integrated valet bay.
Lookers and MG Motor UK agree strategic partnership to drive new EV growth
Lookers Group has agreed a major partnership with one of the UK’s fastest-growing car brands, MG, bringing the iconic British heritage marque to two new sites in England as part of its accelerated growth strategy.
In its newest dealership expansion, Lookers Group, one of the UK’s leading automotive and service groups, announced it has agreed terms to acquire independent dealership Brighton MG for an undisclosed sum. It also confirmed that it would launch the MG car brand in Worcester early in 2024.
Brighton MG is located in Southwick on Old Shoreham Road in West Sussex and combines high-quality service and experience. All 14 staff at the site will transfer to Lookers.
Day Lewis logs in to Locate a Locum to digitise flexi staff resourcing in innovative new deal
Day Lewis Pharmacy, one of the UK and Europe’s largest independent pharmacy chains, has appointed healthcare technology innovator Locate a Locum to deliver and maintain a powerful new digital solution to improve locum resourcing and management across its 267-strong pharmacy network.
Locate a Locum, an award-winning, pioneering on-demand provider of technology solutions to the UK healthcare sector, has already secured preferred supplier status with several of the UK’s largest pharmacy and optical organisations.
Lookers in new charity challenge as epic 935km Eastbourne to Edinburgh cycle ride looms
The countdown is on for a top team of cyclists at one of the UK’s leading automotive retail and service groups, Lookers, after 40 employees – including chief executive Mark Raban and chief operating officer Duncan McPhee – signed up for a new, more demanding bike ride challenge for 2023.
From Eastbourne to Edinburgh, four teams of 10 will cycle 935 kilometres across eight stages to raise funds for Action for Children, a charity dedicated to supporting vulnerable children, young people and their families.
Last year, Lookers raised more than £150,000 for suicide prevention charity Papyrus and Macmillan Cancer Support after a trekking team of 20 staff from right across the group cycled a gruelling 650 kilometres from Birmingham to Scotland and across the Irish Sea to Belfast.
Belfast hosts Europe’s largest archaeology conference
Belfast will this month host Europe’s largest annual gathering of archaeologists when the city will welcome more than 3,000 delegates to Queen’s University and to a variety of venues across the city for four full days.
Northern Ireland’s High Street Hero award winners are confirmed
Ballymoney has taken a top award at this year’s High Street Hero awards, confirming its gold status as High Street of the Year 2023.
Holmes Bakery rolls out new supply deal with Lidl Northern Ireland
Holmes Bakery, in Portadown, is the latest food supplier in Northern Ireland to secure a major contract with Lidl Northern Ireland.
Charles Hurst puts CUPRA and SEAT on show with £2m dealership and 26 new jobs
Charles Hurst has announced a £2m investment to open a new dealership that will bring CUPRA to its Northern Ireland estate for the 1st time.
Northern Ireland loves DIY and more younger people are in on the act, new research shows
Survey commissioned by Lidl Northern Ireland shows 71% of those completing DIY do so to save money, with others doing so for enjoyment and to get the job done quickly.Supermarket retailer unveils new ‘Parkside’ range of affordable DIY tools for indoor and outdoor use to help more households to get stuck in
Northern Ireland is a nation of dedicated DIY home and garden improvers – and a younger generation are increasingly up to the task, according to independent research commissioned by Lidl Northern Ireland*.
Lookers to create new £3.25m Nissan dealership in Newcastle
Lookers is investing a further £3.25 million in its nationwide network of Nissan dealerships with the addition of a bright, modern landmark dealership at Portland Road in Newcastle which will open in spring next year.One of the UK’s leading automotive and service groups, Lookers only opened the doors on a new £1 million Nissan dealership at Gateshead earlier this year following similar transformations in Chester and Carlisle in 2022.
Northern Ireland dads have been putting their shopping skills to the ultimate test in the Lidl trolley dash challenge
Northern Ireland dads have been putting their shopping skills to the ultimate test in the Lidl trolley dash challenge.
Six lucky participants have won an entirely free grocery shop courtesy of Lidl Northern Ireland, after taking part in a ‘supermarket sweep’ style competition in their local store.
Visit Belfast takes world’s ‘best convention bureau’ title at micebook awards 2023
Visit Belfast has been named ‘Best Convention Bureau’ at this year’s micebook awards, further strengthening its ‘best in the world’ status as a global business leader hosting national and international conferences and events.
Young artistic talent shines through as prestigious Bradley Art Prize winners are revealed
The winners of the Bradley Art Prize competition – led by renowned artist Terry Bradley and sponsored by Radius Connect – have been revealed.
Voting opens for Retail NI High Street Hero Awards 2023
Nominations for this year’s High Street Hero Awards, powered by Retail NI, are now open until Saturday 31 July and locals from across the Belfast City Council area are being encouraged to vote for their favourite online to help them win a coveted award.
A record 10,000 votes from across Northern Ireland were registered in last year’s competition which saw Newtownards and Coleraine named joint winners of the prestigious High Street of the Year award.
Online voting is now officially under way for 13 categories, including two new categories for this year – Best Green Retailer and Best Generalist Retailer – so there’s plenty of chances to ensure retailers in every town and village get recognised in what promises to be the biggest and best annual retail initiative yet.
Locum pharmacy pay rates rise by a fifth amid growing workloads and pressures
Average UK pay rates for locum pharmacists grew by almost a fifth to almost £39 an hour in the last year, reflecting continued rising demand for flexible, trained professionals among thousands of community pharmacies.
According to a detailed rates analysis compiled by award-winning online shift booking platform Locate a Locum, which connects locum pharmacists with pharmacies right across the country, the UK’s average locum rate rose by 19 percent to £38.74 per hour in the 12 months ending 31 March compared with the previous year.
NOW Group and Lidl Northern Ireland launch new Retail Skills Academy to support people with autism and learning difficulties into retail careers
Top employer Lidl Northern Ireland and leading social enterprise NOW Group today launched a pioneering employability programme – the first of its kind with the supermarket retailer - to support people with learning difficulties and autism into a retail career.
The announcement is the latest move by the retailer in demonstrating its commitment to diversity and inclusion as part of its award-winning and globally recognised People Strategy. Lidl has also supported the autism community over the past number of years, having already implemented a number of dedicated in-store customer initiatives including autism-friendly evenings and becoming the first JAM Card friendly supermarket in Northern Ireland in 2021.
Ardmore Group establishes strategic advisory and consultancy business
Integrated marketing, public relations and eCommerce group Ardmore has launched a new, standalone consultancy as part of its core services.
The group, which incorporates creative advertising company Ardmore, public relations specialists LK Communications and eCommerce industry leader Built for Growth (BFG) Digital, and employs over 80 staff, said the new business will support companies and government as part of a partnership approach to advance and progress shared agendas in an increasingly complex, challenging world.
NI sporting stars team up to tackle youth mental health with Lidl Northern Ireland’s Sport For Good Schools Programme
An innovative educational programme aimed at equipping school students across Northern Ireland with invaluable tools to manage and improve their mental health through sport has been launched, supported by a stellar line up of some of the country’s most successful sporting stars.
Following on from Mental Health Awareness Week which ran from 15-21 May, Lidl Northern Ireland’s Sport for Good Schools Programme, in partnership with the UK’s leading children’s charity the Youth Sport Trust, and championed by six-time Paralympic gold medallist swimmer Bethany Firth OBE, European Championship 1500 metre silver medallist Ciara Mageean, and World Champion gymnast Rhys McClenaghan, launched at a special event held at Queen’s University Malone Playing Fields in Belfast.
Galgorm Collection checks out as a Great Place to Work
Major Northern Ireland employer Galgorm Collection has become the first hospitality group on the island of Ireland to achieve official Great Place to Work certification across its entire portfolio of award-winning luxury hotels and restaurants.
The prestigious endorsement by Great Place to Work, a global authority on workplace culture and wellbeing, was awarded following an extensive independent employee survey which engaged Galgorm Collection’s workforce of around 1,000 team members.
LK Communications reveals Northern Ireland’s Top 100 Twitter accounts for 2023
CIPR Northern Ireland PR Consultancy of the Year LK Communications, has unveiled details of the region’s Top 100 Twitter account holders for 2023 in the first of a series of reports on the development and reach of social media platforms in the region.
Published exclusively in the Belfast Telegraph, the Top 100 Twitter list reveals a stark gender divide, with male-owned accounts leading women by a factor of three to one.
Lookers embarks on £1.8m transformation plan for Kia Chester
Lookers has embarked on a significant £1.8 million transformation of its Kia Chester site as the company, one of the UK’s leading automotive and aftersales service groups, continues to boost its nationwide network of dealerships.
The redevelopment, which will be completed later this year, will see a full state-of-the-art internal refit, as well as the introduction of a brand-new indoor handover bay and exterior integrated valet bay.
Campaign magazine places Ardmore in prestigious Top 30 agency list
Campaign magazine has placed Ardmore in its top creative agencies for 2022 in its latest list of the best UK marketing and advertising businesses. The magazine – a bible for the global ad industry – also confirmed that multi-award-winning Ardmore was the only agency in the Northern Ireland region to appear for a second year running.
Campaign magazine compiles the prestigious list of creative businesses according to exclusive Nielson billings figures, to shine a global spotlight on the Top 30 UK Regional Agencies. Since the agency first appeared in the coveted list in 2019, Ardmore has risen seven places to sit proudly at position 21 for 2022.
Volunteer Now launches new campaign to celebrate and inspire more volunteers ahead of Volunteers’ Week 2023
With just over two months to go until Volunteers’ Week 2023, taking place 1-7 June, Volunteer Now is calling on communities and businesses to give volunteering a go and be the change that we want to see as it gears up for this year’s Volunteer’s Week festivities.
Now in its 39th year, Volunteers’ Week is an annual event which sees charities, voluntary groups, social organisations, and volunteers themselves come together to recognise the incredible impact that volunteering has in communities around the UK.
Armagh launches dynamic new tourism campaign for spring 2023
Armagh, Banbridge & Craigavon Borough Council has launched a fresh and dynamic campaign to drive visitors to Armagh and the wider borough this spring to enjoy its history, heritage and culture portrayed through an established jam-packed spring events programme, visitor attractions and an unrivalled hospitality offer.
Following the sell-out success of Armagh’s flagship Home of St. Patrick Festival, which ran over nine days until 19 March, the reinvigoratingly fresh spring programme aims to generate demand amongst audiences across Northern Ireland, the Republic of Ireland and further afield, driving visitor bookings for short breaks, day trips and longer stays to the fast-growing visitor destination by showcasing the best it has to offer for every traveller and budget.
Tarasis Enterprises sets new growth goals with £10m investment and plan for 300 new jobs
Tarasis Enterprises, comprised of four key business divisions focused on healthcare, support services, housing and renewables, was officially launched under a new brand identity today (Wednesday 22nd March 2023), streamlining operations to meet new five-year growth goals.
With offices in Belfast, Dublin, Sligo and Armagh, the 28-year-old company, which has invested more than £10 million in the housing and renewables sector over the last number of years, also announced plans to invest a further £10 million across all its divisions.
Galgorm Collection celebrates prestigious awards for culinary excellence across its restaurants
Northern Ireland’s newest boutique hotel, The Old Inn, Crawfordsburn, part of Galgorm Collection, has achieved AA 4-Star Silver status and been awarded a prestigious AA Rosette for Culinary Excellence 2023.
The latest accolade for Galgorm Collection sees the group awarded AA Rosettes for Culinary Excellence across its entire portfolio of hotel restaurants including Fratelli Ristorante at Galgorm, Hunter’s Bar at The Rabbit Hotel & Retreat in Templepatrick - currently AA Hotel of the Year for Northern Ireland - and now its newest offering, the restaurant at The Old Inn.
Green light for first Lidl Northern Ireland store in south Belfast
Lidl Northern Ireland, the region’s fastest-growing supermarket, has been given the green light to construct a new state-of-the-art store at Boucher Road, bringing the retailer’s high quality, low price offering to residents in south Belfast for the first time.
Belfast City Council granted planning permission this week for the new store after an extensive local consultation with stakeholders and the wider community, as well as onsite engagement with elected representatives, which was positively received.
St Paul’s pupils break down stigma around mental health with Lidl Northern Ireland Sport for Good Schools Programme
Secondary school pupils across the country are benefitting from the Lidl Northern Ireland Sport for Good Schools Programme, a dedicated mental health athlete mentorship programme delivered by Lidl Northern Ireland as part of the retailer’s established ‘Sport for Good’ campaign which aims to tackle youth mental health head on.
The programme, developed in partnership with the Youth Sport Trust, first launched in 2021 and has since supported more than 5,200 secondary school pupils across Northern Ireland. Survey feedback from last year’s programme revealed that 83% of participants felt Lidl Northern Ireland’s programme boosted their overall confidence and 100% of teachers committed to changing the mental health support programmes in their schools as a result.
New judges in the frame as Bradley Art Prize competition deadline looms
Young artists across Northern Ireland have just five weeks to put the finishing touches to their creative masterpieces and enter the inaugural Bradley Art Prize – a new art initiative led by renowned artist Terry Bradley and sponsored by Radius Connect which aims to support fresh artistic ideas and talent.
With an unprecedented number of submissions already received the stellar panel of judges has also been expanded to meet demand for the competition, which closes on 31 March.
New judges include renowned award-winning tattoo artist Gigi McQueen and Bradley Art Prize sponsor Stephen McQuoid, Regional Director for Ireland at Radius Connect. They join an existing line-up of famed artists and critiques including Terry Bradley and wife Ashley, Hollywood film producer Martin Brennan and NI Executive Brussels Director Aodhán Connolly.
Retail NI launches new supply chain forum to support local producers
Retail NI has launched a new Supply Chain Forum to connect and promote trading opportunities with local producers, manufacturers and suppliers with its independent retail and wholesale members.
The new Supply Chain Forum was officially launched at Retail NI’s Supplier Showcase event, which took place on Thursday 23 February at PwC, Belfast.
Lidl Northern Ireland solves problem of missed deliveries in new partnership with OOHPod parcel lockers
Lidl Northern Ireland has joined forces with an innovative ‘out of home’ self-service parcel locker provider to make its parcel lockers available to customers across the region, offering them the convenience of picking up or returning their online purchases, at the same time as their regular shop.
The strategic partnership with parcel locker company OOHPod, is the first of its kind in Northern Ireland, and will see Lidl roll out the lockers to stores across the region in the months ahead, simplifying online shopping for customers.
Ooh La La! The Ultimate Bottomless Brunch arrives in Belfast
Belfast’s chicest restaurant Parisien is launching a new ultimate Bottomless Brunch to add to its unrivalled city centre dining experience.
Launching on Sunday 5 March, diners can enjoy a luxurious brunch accompanied by a range of bottomless drinks and cocktails for just £45 per person every Sunday from 10am-2pm.
Guests can feast on the finest brunch dishes with a classic French twist, Parisien style, and sip on expertly made drinks in decadent, plush surroundings of the main restaurant, or dine al-fresco and enjoy panoramic views of Belfast City Hall and the bustling city scape from its all-weather terrace.
Lidl Northern Ireland Announces Region-wide Roll Out of ‘Waste Not’ Fruit and Veg Boxes
Lidl Northern Ireland has become the first supermarket retailer in the region to implement a rollout of a major new initiative aimed at reducing food waste and bringing shoppers even more savings at the tills.
Lidl Northern Ireland’s Waste Not boxes, priced at just £2.50, will contain at least 5kg of mixed fruit and vegetables which are perfectly good to eat but have been separated from other products which have become slightly damaged and removed from multipacks.
Armagh’s ‘Home of St Patrick’ Festival Returns
Armagh City, the home of St Patrick, is celebrating his life and legacy as part of an eight-day festival of events that gets underway on Saturday 11 March.
Held in the ecclesiastical capital, this year’s cultural offering combines an exciting programme of traditional live music, art, poetry, theatre, film and dance and takes in many of the city’s iconic Georgian streets and venues.
Retail NI launches first showcase event to promote local suppliers
Retail NI, which represents the independent retail and wholesale sector in Northern Ireland, will host its first ever Supplier Showcase event next month to promote and celebrate the huge contribution local producers, manufacturers and suppliers make to its members and the wider local economy.
Supported by key partners United Wines, McCausland Car Parks and Voice for Locals, the event will take place on Thursday 23 February from 4-6pm at the prestigious new PwC building in Merchant Square, Belfast.
New all-electric car ORA Funky Cat is coming to Charles Hurst Belfast as first GWM ORA retailer in Northern Ireland
Charles Hurst, Northern Ireland’s biggest car retailer, has today confirmed a new partnership with pioneering electric car brand GWM ORA.
As the first Dealer Group in Northern Ireland to team up with the GWM ORA brand, Charles Hurst will initially offer exclusive stock of the brand’s new all-electric car, ORA Funky Cat, to customers across Northern Ireland. Charles Hurst will open a state-of-the-art GWM ORA showroom at its Boucher Road site this spring.
Hubflow targets global expansion after successful London rollout
Belfast start-up Hubflow plans 100 new London locations and sets sights on global expansion over next five years.
Sporting heroes get in the game to deliver Lidl Northern Ireland’s Sport for Good Schools Programme mental health workshops
25 winning schools across Northern Ireland secure coveted place on retailer’s established Mental Health Athlete Mentorship programme delivered by the region’s sporting legends
Wirefox acquires prime Belfast city centre office building
Leading investment firm Wirefox confirms acquisition of ‘35DP’ ahead of The Paper Exchange launch in early 2023
Primark’s newest UK store opens to the public at Rushmere Shopping Centre
Rushmere’s latest new store openings create more than 170 new jobs and promise more variety and value for excited shoppers as Primark and Poundland arrive in time for Christmas
Shoppers sweep up in Lidl Northern Ireland’s annual Trolley Dash, raising more than £90,000 for NSPCC
41 lucky shoppers across Northern Ireland take part in festive dash to bag their entire Christmas shop for free in support of NSPCC Northern Ireland
Leading retail and hospitality app launches ‘Shop Local’ Christmas campaign to support jobs and the economy
Retail NI backs call from the Roam Local app to support independent retailers in Belfast and beyond over Christmas and New Year
Inclusion award for Belfast as the 2022 Harkin Summit delivers a lasting legacy for the city
Belfast wins top ABPCO award for Harkin Summit Belfast at leading event industry awards
Lookers Volkswagen Preston wins top Motability Award
The award-winning dealership underwent a £2.1m transformation earlier this year
Charles Hurst announces new partnership with iconic British performance car brand Lotus
Belfast’s Boucher Road showroom will be the only outlet for Lotus within Northern Ireland
Volunteer Now tackles loneliness with new campaign urging public to give the gift of friendship this Christmas
Public encouraged to spread good cheer and volunteer as a befriender to the elderly community and give the gift of friendship this Christmas
Lidl Northern Ireland ploughs record £347 million into local agri-food industry and grows 60 local producers to success
New Impact Report launched by the retailer demonstrates its significant impact in supporting local producers and championing Northern Ireland’s agri-food produce globally
“But now at Lidl Northern Ireland” … Julian Simmons launches retailer’s Christmas Trolley Dash in aid of NSPCC
Lidl Northern Ireland has this Christmas teamed up with renowned broadcaster and household favourite Julian Simmons for the return of its major festive fundraiser Trolley Dash, in aid of charity partner NSPCC Northern Ireland.
Belfast’s BFG Digital named best eCommerce agency in UK
Belfast-based digital marketing agency Built for Growth (BFG) Digital has been named the Best eCommerce Agency in the UK by the eCommerce Association at the UK eCommerce Awards 2022.
eir evo eyes further growth from new vantage point with major office move
Leading telecoms and IT provider eir evo has signed a new 10-year lease to take residency in office development The Vantage.
Terry Bradley launches major art prize to inspire a new generation
Renowned artist Terry Bradley is launching a new art initiative to drive fresh talent and creativity among young people in Northern Ireland.
Lookers’ inspiring women take the lead at Inspiring Automotive Women Awards 2022
Lookers celebrates the success of its inspirational women who are officially recognised for their outstanding contribution
Lookers confirmed as the not-so-new name for Taggarts in Scotland
Leading motoring group Lookers Plc, which acquired car retailer Taggarts in 2003, is unifying its well-known Lookers brand to include Taggarts in Scotland.
LK Communications is Northern Ireland’s ‘PR Consultancy of the Year’
Holywood-based public relations consultancy LK Communications is celebrating a quadruple award win this week after officially securing Northern Ireland’s ‘PR Consultancy of the Year’ title at the Chartered Institute of Public Relations (CIPR) Pride Awards 2022.
Lookers reopens all-new Nissan Chester dealership after major makeover
Lookers transforms Nissan Chester site in £750,000 investment in latest dealership upgrade
Creative ad leader Ardmore grounds its net zero vision in industry first for Northern Ireland
Leading advertising agency Ardmore is on course for net zero status after becoming the first creative agency in Northern Ireland to sign with three leading national and international industry bodies focused on sustainable transformation.
Lookers completes epic Birmingham to Belfast charity bike ride
Lookers’ colleagues from across the UK take part in nationwide cross-country cycle to raise £150,000 for UK charities
The Rabbit Hotel & Retreat Crowned AA Hotel of the Year Northern Ireland 2022
The Rabbit Hotel & Retreat was named Hotel of the Year Northern Ireland 2022 at the AA Hospitality Awards this week.
Lookers to open all-new BMW dealership in Crewe after £4.5m transformation
Lookers Crewe BMW to create a new, state-of-the-art BMW retail and aftersales hub in the North West.
8/10 students report improvement in confidence thanks to Lidl Northern Ireland Sport for Good programme
Olympic and Paralympic heroes and local sporting legends have teamed up with Lidl Northern Ireland to launch this year’s Sport for Good Schools Programme which, in partnership with children’s charity Youth Sport Trust, aims to promote positive mental health amongst secondary school pupils across Northern Ireland through sport.
Award-winning Roam app extends rollout across Northern Ireland
Hospitality Ulster and Retail NI back Roam Local rollout plans with major Belfast launch after Bangor success
Aspiring chefs to step up to the plate with launch of new NI Chef Academy
Aspiring chefs are being called to step up to the plate and enroll on a brand-new training course, launched today by the Northern Ireland Hospitality School, offering students the chance to gain a chef qualification and secure guaranteed employment with one of Northern Ireland’s top hotels.
Shore Road is awash with shoppers as Lidl Northern Ireland opens highly anticipated new store
Lidl Northern Ireland, the region’s fastest-growing supermarket, made a splash at Belfast’s Shore Road today with the official opening of its new, dramatically transformed store which gives customers more space to shop an expanded product range, delivering even more ‘Big on Quality, Lidl on Price’ savings for the local area.
Trinseo Opens New Global Business Services Hub in Dublin’s Docklands
Trinseo has opened its new Global Business Services (GBS) office in Dublin City Centre, welcoming representatives from leading local businesses and organisations, staff and partners to an official unveiling ceremony attended by Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Leo Varadkar TD.
Bangor scores a Northern Ireland first with new tech designed to electrify the High Street
New award-winning app 'Roam Local' is launched in Bangor ahead of borough-wide and Northern Ireland rollout.
Lidl Northern Ireland’s buzzing about biodiversity with launch of new pollinator gardens at stores across the region
Lidl Northern Ireland has announced the installation of five new pollinator gardens, as part of its commitment to supporting biodiversity.
Grahams Bakery and Lidl Northern Ireland are a batch made in heaven with new £2.5 million supply deal
Grahams Bakery and Lidl Northern Ireland are a batch made in heaven with new £2.5 million supply deal for cakes, swiss rolls and rocky roads.
Wirefox acquires historic Bushmills Inn Hotel
Wirefox, a Holywood-based investment company, has acquired The Bushmills Inn Hotel and restaurant, through its Marram Hotel Partners entity.
eir evo unveils new Northern Ireland drive for growth
Leading telecoms and IT provider eir evo has embarked on a new drive for growth in Northern Ireland as part of an ambitious strategy that brings its island-wide experience and powerful technical know-how to new and existing customers.
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Ardmore acquires Belfast eCommerce specialist BFG Digital
Leading creative advertising and marketing agency Ardmore has acquired award-winning eCommerce consultancy and digital marketing specialist Built For Growth Digital (BFG Digital).
‘Top employer’ Lidl Northern Ireland extends enhanced paid leave policy to offer all staff paid time off for IVF cycles
Lidl Northern Ireland is enhancing its industry-leading benefits package by offering enhanced fertility support including paid time off to any of its 1,300 employees undergoing IVF, regardless of length of service.
Northern Ireland’s Charles Hurst Group wins top UK motability award
Northern Ireland’s largest car retailer, Charles Hurst, has been named Large National Dealer Group of the Year for 2022 at this year’s Motability Awards in recognition for the exceptional service its Motability customers receive across its dealership network.
The Skin Clinic at Galgorm undergoes makeover with newly expanded aesthetics offering
Leading clinician Dr Andrew Mottram adds a suite of celebrity A-list treatments, skin cancer screening and advanced aesthetics as part of expanded new offering
Rushmere puts Asian food on the menu in May in latest restaurant offer
An exciting new Asian food restaurant and takeaway is opening at Rushmere in May, adding extra spice and hospitality to one of Northern Ireland’s most successful shopping centres and retail complexes – and 20 new jobs.
Runners get energised for Mash Direct Belfast City Marathon with boost from Lidl Northern Ireland
Lidl Northern Ireland today announced a brand-new partnership with Mash Direct Belfast City Marathon as its official ‘Fresh Fruit Supplier’, providing competitors with an energetic and healthy boost to power them to the finish line when the race gets underway on Sunday, 1st May.
Lidl Northern Ireland secures sizzling new £340,000 annual supply deal with Hellbent
Kick Start’ alumni Hellbent secures permanent listing with Lidl Northern Ireland as retailer announces applications now open for 2022 supplier development programme
Volunteer Now calls for ‘A Time to Say Thanks’ to local community heroes this Volunteers’ Week
Volunteers’ Week, which runs from 1-7 June, will honour local volunteers with a week-long programme of events as part of wider UK celebrations
Bellissimo! Belfast says ‘Ciao’ to Fratelli as popular Italian restaurant reopens
All new for 2022, the refurbished Italian classic will reopen to the public on Friday 25 March with an excitingly authentic new menu
Lidl Northern Ireland clears the way for two new stores in Belfast and Omagh
Construction work on two of Lidl Northern Ireland’s newest stores is under way in Belfast and Omagh as part of its multimillion-pound investment plans to transform older existing stores that reflect its bright, modern and award-winning ‘concept’ design.
Lidl Northern Ireland puts stock in renewed charity partnership with NSPCC
Lidl Northern Ireland has announced the extension of its charity partnership with NSPCC Northern Ireland for a third consecutive time
Lookers creates 80 jobs in new ‘Jump Start’ trainee scheme
Lookers creates 80 jobs in new ‘Jump Start’ trainee scheme
Lookers launches nationwide drive to find 208 new apprentices
Lookers is seeking a record number of apprentices in aftersales, servicing and parts
Lidl Northern Ireland’s Sport for Good Schools Programme to tackle mental health head on in new partnership with Youth Sport Trust
Lidl Northern Ireland’s Sport for Good Schools Programme to tackle mental health head on in new partnership with Youth Sport Trust
Lidl Northern Ireland announces 180 new jobs and pay rewards of £1.5 million
Lidl Northern Ireland announces 180 new jobs and pay rewards of £1.5 million
New Executive Chef Ryan Stringer appointed at top Belfast restaurant James Street
New Executive Chef Ryan Stringer appointed at top Belfast restaurant James Street
The Rabbit Hotel & Retreat revs up with launch of exclusive new health and wellness membership
Northern Ireland’s newest spa hotel welcomes local motorcycling legend Jonathan Rea OBE as first member of exclusive new £2 million spa and gym offering
LK’s Kayleigh Tinney named Chair of first ever NI Public Relations NextGen Committee
LK Communications’ Kayleigh Tinney has been named as Chair of Northern Ireland’s first ever PRCA NI NextGen Committee.
Visit Belfast wins UK excellence award for its sustainable tourism drive
Visit Belfast’s commitment in driving tourism growth in a new and sustainable way has been recognised by Britain’s leading body of conference organisers.
Lidl Northern Ireland sets its sights on south Belfast with plans for new £6m store at Boucher Road
Planning application lodged to create modern concept store at prime retail site in south Belfast, extending Lidl’s presence across all four corners of the city
Lookers revs up omnichannel customer options with new delivery fleet rollout
UK and Ireland’s leading motor retail and aftersales group revs up omnichannel options with new delivery fleet and instant valuation ‘click and sell’ online tool
Charles Hurst, part of Lookers Motor Group, marks 110th anniversary with new sustainability drive
Northern Ireland’s largest car retailer celebrates 110 years of investment, growth and success and pledges to deliver a carbon neutral estate
Shoppers sweep up in Lidl Northern Ireland’s Trolley Dash to bag Christmas dinner for free
Lidl Northern Ireland’s flagship charity fundraising event Trolley Dash raises over £93,000 for NSPCC Northern Ireland
LK Communications reappointed to Visit Belfast’s agency roster for third consecutive time
Visit Belfast has reappointed LK Communications to help support its mission to rebuild the city’s tourism economy and recovery plans through to 2024.
Lidl Northern Ireland gets green light for three new stores
Lidl Northern Ireland to build three new concept stores at Carryduff, Castlereagh Road and Shore Road in an £18 million investment
Lookers appoints Danny Bishop to new people-focused leadership role
Danny Bishop joins as Head of Learning and Development in newly-created position
New Ambassador Circle launched to promote Northern Ireland as a leading international business and events destination
A new initiative, the Ambassador Circle, was launched today to target and significantly grow the number of international business events hosted in Northern Ireland and promote Northern Ireland as a leading business and events destination.
Armagh City’s iconic Georgian Weekend celebrates its rich history and heritage from Thursday 25 November
One of Northern Ireland’s biggest heritage celebrations takes place this weekend when Armagh’s Georgian Weekend returns with a big line-up of outstanding food, drink and plenty of entertainment and activity to mark the official start of the Christmas countdown.
Lidl Northern Ireland posts strong full year results amid exponential growth
Lidl Northern Ireland today posted strong full year results for the 2020/2021 trading year, demonstrating exponential business growth during a period of unprecedented challenges.
The retailer, who was recently named Retail Company of the Year at the Business Eye Awards filed financial results for the period March 2020 – February 2021 recorded turnover of more than £345 million - up almost a quarter on the previous year.
Befrienders brew up series of afternoon tea events to support the elderly and isolated across Belfast
Volunteer befrienders across Belfast have been brewing up a series of new afternoon tea events aimed at supporting vulnerable older people who experience social isolation and loneliness to establish new friendships, create connections and enjoy a social day out.
Shoppers set to bag their Christmas shop for just £1 as Lidl Northern Ireland’s charity Trolley Dash returns
Shoppers set to bag their Christmas shop for just £1 as Lidl Northern Ireland’s charity Trolley Dash returns
Olympic heroes unite to put mental health in the spotlight with launch of Lidl Northern Ireland’s Sport for Good campaign
Lidl Northern Ireland’s Sport for Good campaign returns for third year to promote positive mental health through sport within local secondary schools
Galgorm partners with top clinical expert to launch Aesthetics at The Skin Clinic
Leading skincare expert and clinician Dr Andrew Mottram takes residency at The Skin Clinic at Galgorm, offering a brand-new suite of anti-ageing treatments
Lidl Northern Ireland launches recruitment roadshow to hire 100 permanent new retail roles across its store network
Lidl Northern Ireland is launching a recruitment roadshow to hire for 100 permanent new retail roles across its network of stores throughout the region to support its continued growth and expansion.
Northern Irish entrepreneur launches new book aimed at empowering female business leaders
Award-winning Northern Irish entrepreneur and renowned business leader Mairead Mackle has launched a new book aimed at inspiring women to become women of power, featuring a powerful collection of insights and inspiration from 16 top female leaders from around the world.
Belfast ranked in Top 20 global sustainable destinations
Belfast has made the Top 20 official list of sustainable destinations in the world, securing a prominent place on the international stage as a leading city tourism destination committed to sustainable development and growth.
Galgorm expands luxury outdoor accommodation offering in new £10 million investment
Galgorm announced plans today to create a suite of new accommodation and thermal spa options within its 380-acre County Antrim Estate which forms part of a £10 million investment that will create up to 50 new hospitality jobs over the next two years.
LK Communications makes new appointment to its Board to further strategic growth
Leading UK and Ireland agency LK Communications has appointed Geri Wright to its Board, further supporting its continued strategic growth ambitions.
Another Success for Visit Belfast Welcome Centre at Northern Ireland Tourism Awards 2021
Visit Belfast Welcome Centre recognised as best in class at first NITA Awards held since 2019
Deli Lites extends its digital reach in new five-year plan for growth
Deli Lites enlists Radius Connect to enhance digital connectivity across the UK and Ireland
Galgorm bathes in success at World Luxury Hotel Awards
Northern Ireland’s premier luxury destination collects hat trick of awards for excellence across its accommodation, spa and restaurant offering
Rushmere Shopping Centre adds four new retailers ahead of Christmas
Northern Ireland cosmetics brand BPerfect leads a new line-up of retailers at Rushmere
Trinseo Powers Up in Dublin with New Global Business Services Hub to Drive Its Transformation
Global materials company Trinseo announces expansion into Ireland with opening of new office at Sir John Rogerson’s Quay that will fill 130 jobs over the next six months.
My Special Aflac DuckTM arrives in Northern Ireland
Aflac Northern Ireland, a subsidiary of Aflac Incorporated, has joined forces with the Children’s Cancer Unit Charity to help provide comfort to local children diagnosed with cancer.
Par Equity seeks to double Northern Ireland funding to £20m after string of successful deals
Par Equity, an Edinburgh-based specialist in high-growth early-stage tech businesses, is increasing its support for cutting-edge companies in Northern Ireland to £20 million after a string of successful transactions.
Leading international choir festival scales up with launch of global Virtual Choral Trail
City of Derry International Choir Festival gets warmed up for 20 October launch with call for choirs around the world to join its showstopping virtual choral event
Harnessing business expertise for good policy gains
The stopwatch for next year’s election to the Northern Ireland Assembly has started. Whether that time runs out next May, as initially planned, or before that, remains to be seen.
Lookers launches major drive to recruit 100 technicians in UK and Ireland
Top three UK car retailer and aftersales group Lookers plc has launched a new campaign to recruit 100 technicians across its UK & Ireland network of 152 dealerships and is urging skilled and graduate technicians to see what is on offer.
Lidl Northern Ireland crunches new £11 million supply deal with fresh food producer Willowbrook Foods
Lidl Northern Ireland has awarded Newtownards-based fresh food producer Willowbrook Foods an expanded supply deal worth £11 million – almost double its previous contract - to supply 25 new lines of fresh convenience foods across its network of 210 stores throughout the island of Ireland.
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The Old Inn unlocks its doors to reveal £1 million refurbishment
Galgorm Collection today revealed plans to throw open the doors of its newest venture and welcome guests and visitors back to The Old Inn, Crawfordsburn from Friday 3 September
Lidl Northern Ireland tackles period poverty with launch of major new initiative offering free period products to shoppers
Lidl Northern Ireland becomes first supermarket in the region to support those affected by period poverty in major new initiative backed by Homeless Period Belfast
Sensational City of Derry International Choir Festival launches on 20 October
Ireland’s Maiden City confirms world class, big-name programme of live and digital choral events for 2021
Armagh’s award-winning Food & Cider Weekend returns in September
Scrumptious food, bubbling cider and a huge serving of top-end gastronomic experiences are all back on the menu next month when Armagh’s award-winning Food and Cider Weekend gets under way on Thursday 9 September.
Spoon Street confirms fifth Northern Ireland store opening at Rushmere
Northern Ireland self-serve frozen yogurt sensation Spoon Street is on its way to Rushmere Shopping Centre as part of renewed growth plans to add new stores and jobs across the region.
Top Portadown gift specialist bags extra space in new retail expansion
One of Portadown’s most successful independent retailers, The Bottom Drawer, has bagged a 35% extension to its retail space, making way for a growing product range after a strong rise in walk-in and online sales.
Iconic NI band The Outcasts to take Punk to the Park
The ever-popular Belfast punk band, The Outcasts are set to make an explosive return to the stage at Ward Park in Bangor at Punk in the Park this summer as restrictions are eased and live gigs are permitted.
Galgorm Collection acquires historic hotel The Old Inn, Crawfordsburn
The investment by Galgorm Collection, which owns the world-renowned Galgorm Spa & Golf Resort and a number of other properties across Belfast and Antrim, includes £1 million in further development and extension plans to the property.
New hospitality training school launches offering guaranteed employment with three of Northern Ireland’s top hotels
The Gallaher Trust has announced the launch of the Northern Ireland Hospitality School offering enrollers the chance to gain a hospitality qualification and secure guaranteed employment with one of Northern Ireland’s top hotels.
Lidl announced as first retailer to become JAM Card friendly in support of vulnerable customers
Lidl Northern Ireland, together with the NOW Group, has announced it will be the first retailer to become Just A Minute (JAM) Card friendly across its network of stores in the island of Ireland over the coming weeks. Lidl has also committed to sponsoring 6,000 JAM Cards which contributes towards keeping the cards free and accessible to those who need them.
Galgorm Collection set to open The Rabbit Hotel & Retreat this summer
Galgorm Collection has announced the opening of Northern Ireland’s newest luxury hotel in an investment worth £10 million that will create an additional 26 hospitality jobs, taking its total workforce to almost 100 team members, and provide an exciting welcome break for visitors from this summer.
Lookers Completes Senior Management Appointments
Lookers plc has confirmed the appointment of Chris Whitaker to the role of Chief People Officer, effective immediately, completing a series of Senior Management appointments.
Lidl Northern Ireland & McCulla Launch Fully Green Transport Fleet
Lidl Northern Ireland has become the first retailer in the UK and Ireland to launch a fully green transport fleet powered by waste-to-energy generation, in partnership with leading local logistics company McCulla Transport.
Galgorm Collection launches recruitment drive for over 180 new hospitality jobs
Galgorm today announced the launch of a brand new recruitment drive to hire more than 180 additional new team members for a range of hospitality roles for its hotels and restaurants in Ballymena, Belfast and Templepatrick.
Rainbow Communications embarks on new plan for growth with Radius
Leading Northern Ireland IT and telecoms solutions provider Rainbow Communications is on new path for renewed growth after being acquired by Sunday Times Top Track 100 company Radius Payment Solutions.
Lidl prices this Mother’s Day
Lidl Northern Ireland is your one-stop shop this year for the ideal luxurious Mother’s Day gifts. Whether your mum is a candle or diffuser lover, a flower queen or an espresso enthusiast, Lidl has affordable but chic options to spoil your mum this year with prices starting at just £3.59.
Armagh streams six-day Home of St Patrick Festival to the world
Ireland’s real home of St Patrick, Armagh, has unveiled details of a packed six-day schedule of events to celebrate the island’s famous patron saint with the world this month.
Irwin’s Bakery Proves a £50m Success with Lidl Northern Ireland
Irwin’s Bakery has proven a big success with Lidl Northern Ireland as the region’s fastest growing supermarket today confirmed a new and expanded contract for the full year ahead after a successful 20-year partnership deal worth more than £50 million.
Schools Score £120,000 Sports Investment with Lidl Northern Ireland
Lidl Northern Ireland has gone to top of the class after awarding 40 secondary schools £3,000 worth of vouchers each to secure essential brand-new sports equipment as part of the retailer’s Sport for Good initiative, which aims to encourage and support young people to make the most of the physical and mental benefits of sport participation.
Visit Belfast maps out city tourism recovery in new three-year approach
Visit Belfast has outlined the development of its new strategy to support the city’s economic recovery post Covid-19.
Raindrop targets self-employed with new all-in-one online pension solution
Raindrop is a flexible, smart and secure solution specifically designed for self-employed workers to save for their futures in one easy-to-use online platform.
Lidl Northern Ireland Creates 170 New Roles in Local Jobs Boost and Invests £300,000 in COVID Employee Bonus
New roles are being created to support Lidl’s growth across the region and will expand the retailer’s workforce to over 1,200 staff
New figures indicate strong online business uplift for dealerships in 2020
Vehicle Vision says pandemic puts UK motor industry on new digital path in 2021
Lidl Northern Ireland on the Hunt for Kids with Bags of Style to Design New Recycled Shopping Bags
One lucky winner will have their masterpiece printed on new recycled shopping bags stocked in all 40 Lidl Northern Ireland stores
Wirefox fires up Belfast plans to deliver £70m Grade A office scheme in 2022
Construction already under way and funding firmly secured to deliver landmark 200,000 sq. ft in Belfast city centre
Southern Regional College stages Northern Ireland’s biggest Christmas Panto
Thousands of students across Northern Ireland joined forces for the Beauty and the Beast digital extravaganza
Vehicle Vision Marks Industry-first in Smart Communications Platform Launch
New Assist platform will transform the customer – dealership experience, says founders.
Shoppers Bag a Festive Feast for Free with Lidl Northern Ireland’s Trolley Dash
Annual charity dash raises a staggering £100,000 for NSPCC Northern Ireland this Christmas.
Portadown’s High Street Mall set for new Lidl Northern Ireland early next year
New £6 million town centre investment will support 120 jobs as part of region-wide expansion.
Lidl Northern Ireland celebrates milestone 40th store opening in Holywood Exchange Retail Park
Northern Ireland’s fastest-growing supermarket creates 30 jobs and invests £3 million in new store opening
Shelbourne Motors puts connectivity first in major new investment
Shelbourne Motors enlists Rainbow Communications to add new Cloud-based contact and online technology to its growing business.
Lidl Northern Ireland pledges £32 million local investment and support of more than 1,000 jobs in the development of five new stores
Full steam ahead for new Belfast store plans at Boucher Road, Crumlin Road, Castlereagh Road, Holywood Exchange and Shore Road.
Lidl Customers Given Chance to Bag their Christmas Shop for Just £1 as Trolley Dash Returns in aid of NSPCC Northern Ireland
Sweepstake tickets on sale in 40 Lidl stores across the region from 16th – 29th November with 100% of proceeds donated to charity partner NSPCC.
Northern Ireland motoring giant Colin McNab confirms retirement
Colin McNab steps down from Charles Hurst after almost 50 years’ service to the local motor industry.
Aflac celebrates one year in NI ahead of targeted recruitment goals
Aflac Northern Ireland has officially marked its first year in Northern Ireland. The company has opened a new state-of-the-art hub at Belfast’s City Quays 2 and confirmed that with 65 employees now on board, it is well ahead of its three-year target to recruit 150 local tech staff by 2023.
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Sporting Legends Join Forces to Launch Lidl Northern Ireland Sport for Good 2020 Campaign
Secondary schools across Northern Ireland set to score £120,000 worth of new sports equipment
New South Lake Leisure Centre safely opens in Craigavon
The new South Lake Leisure Centre opened safely to the public and in line with current public health guidelines today, Monday 2 November 2020.
The expansive state-of-the-art facility is home to a brand new 50-metre, eight-lane swimming pool and 1,000m2 gym – the largest on the island of Ireland – and is now open seven days a week on a pre-booking basis for everyone to enjoy.
Council awards contract for hospitality services at South Lake Leisure Centre
Leading local social enterprise incredABLE awarded contract to deliver hospitality services at South Lake Leisure Centre.
Lidl Northern Ireland Charity Partnership With NSPCC Blossoms
Lidl Northern Ireland has announced the second extension of the retailer’s charity partnership with NSPCC Northern Ireland. The partnership will continue until 2022 with Lidl Northern Ireland increasing its fundraising commitment to a staggering £600,000 in support of NSPCC Northern Ireland’s vital services across the region.
Apple embraces 5G in its newest iPhone series
In the face of all the gloom, there was at least some sense of ‘normality' last week after Apple kept to its promise and finally revealed its new iPhone 12 series to the world. The launch may have been a month late but still worth the wait and with some surprising albeit unexpected innovations announced.
Rainbow Communications secures Microsoft Silver Partner status
Northern Ireland’s largest independent cloud telecommunications and IT provider, Rainbow Communications, has been accredited as a global Microsoft Silver partner, putting it in the top five percent of companies in the world which holds the award.
£20m premium parking facility opens at Belfast’s Grosvenor Road
Value Car Parks launches new 575 space state-of-the-art parking facility in Belfast City Centre as McCausland Group marks 100 years in business.
The Post Office makes a special delivery for Magowan West Shopping Centre
New branch for Portadown Post Office at West Street and more retail announcements expected soon.
LK Communications Further Strengthens Senior Team
LK Communications today named a new addition to its senior team.
Galgorm Skin Clinic Announces New Partnership with IMAGE Skincare
Leading skin clinic expands premier skincare offering and launches new IMAGE tailored facial.
Local Biosciences Company Launches New ‘Best in Class’ Hand Sanitiser Providing Optimal Protection
Torax Biosciences, a leading Northern Ireland life sciences and biomedical company, has launched a revolutionary new, clinically approved hand sanitiser proven to kill 99.99% of bacteria and viruses .
Armagh Food & Cider Weekend is back on the menu
Ireland’s Orchard County’s award-winning food and drink event confirmed for a September return.
Rainbow Communications marks a decade at the top for mobile growth
Northern Ireland’s largest independent telecoms company hails importance of mobile and data services to economic growth.
More Armagh visitor attractions set to reopen for visitors for August
Armagh County Museum, Market Place Theatre and Brownlow House follow Navan Centre & Fort and FE McWilliam Gallery in opening their doors
Let’s Eat Out to Help Out Our Belfast’s City Centre Hospitality Businesses
As the UK Government’s 4-week initiative ‘Eat Out to Help Out’ gets underway, Belfast’s first citizen, Lord Mayor Alderman Frank McCoubrey was doing just that.
FE McWilliam Gallery & Studio reopens today
One of the UK and Ireland’s artistic ‘hidden gems’ is safely welcoming everyone back
Armagh’s Navan Centre reopens on 30 July with the ultimate new experience.
Steeped in Celtic history, Navan Centre in Ireland’s Orchard County provides a legendary FREE day out this August
Lidl Northern Ireland Harvests New Crop of Home-Grown Artisan Producers
First Minister Arlene Foster welcomes Galgorm’s newest tourism investment as guests are safely welcomed back.
Galgorm Unveils New Spa Attractions as Part of £2 Million Expansion Project
First Minister Arlene Foster welcomes Galgorm’s newest tourism investment as guests are safely welcomed back.
Hop to it… The Rabbit Bar & Restaurant Opens with Enchanting New Dining Experience
New-look bar and restaurant launches this month to mark the arrival of The Rabbit Hotel, formerly known as The Templeton.
Galgorm Spa & Golf Resort Among UK’s First Hotels to Secure New AA COVID Confident Mark
Galgorm Spa & Golf Resort has become one of the UK’s first hospitality businesses to secure the new AA COVID Confident Mark for its health and safety commitment ahead of reopening on Friday 24th July.
Greenisland Flowers in full bloom after securing new supply deal with Lidl Northern Ireland
Top Northern Ireland horticulturalist Greenisland Flowers is blooming today after securing a new supply deal with Lidl Northern Ireland to ship more than four million stems of freshly cut tulips, lilies and scented stocks to its 202 stores in Ireland and Northern Ireland.
Belfast Chamber and Ardmore to host free resilience workshop for businesses
Local and international experts join leading panel this week to help NI businesses get back on track
Northern Ireland’s FE colleges launch new drive to promote business recovery through part-time learning
FE Colleges say part-time and online learning can help to power regional economic growth.
Rushmere Shopping Centre & Retail Park plans drive-in movie weekend as retail prepares to rev up in June
Preparations under way for wider reopening at one of Northern Ireland’s largest retail destinations
Lidl Northern Ireland strikes £24m supply contract with Fermanagh’s Crust & Crumb
Landmark export deal will drive new pizza sales in more than 1,000 stores across UK and Ireland.
Visit Belfast puts the City on the Digital Map for Audiences at Home and Away
Belfast’s tourism appeal is reaching the homes of millions of people both near and far, thanks to a range of targeted digital activity aimed at keeping online users regularly engaged.
New NI campaign launched to encourage more people to ‘Make It Click’ online
A new campaign was launched today to provide people across Northern Ireland with the tools to upskill their digital abilities and improve online confidence as thousands of people turn to the internet to help navigate the COVID-19 crisis whilst tackling isolation at home.
Charles Hurst Putting Frontline Workers First
Charles Hurst has announced it will open its Jaguar Land Rover workshop from 6th April to provide car repairs for frontline and essential key workers.
Galgorm Says Thank You to Frontline NHS Workers
Galgorm Collection will be donating a staggering £750,000 worth of experience vouchers to the Northern Health & Social Care Trust frontline staff in recognition for their hard work, bravery, and commitment to helping patients throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.
Frontline First
Carsmetic NI, part of the Charles Hurst Group, has completed delivery of its first batch of essential protective equipment to medical staff at Craigavon Area Hospital.
New Armagh SRC Campus Secures Top Rating For Sustainability
BREEAM ‘excellent’ rating puts Armagh SRC among the most sustainable FE colleges in the UK and Ireland
Volunteers Sniff Out Opportunities with Launch of New Online Search Portal
Volunteer Now, the lead organisation for promoting and supporting volunteering across Northern Ireland, is urging people in Belfast to get into volunteering and find their perfect match through its brand new online search portal.
La Mon Signals New Conference and Events Strength After £2m Investment
Rainbow Communications adds a new superfast oomph at La Mon Hotel & Country Club
CastleCourt Leaps into Creative Learning with Launch of New Kid’s Club
CastleCourt today launched its brand-new ‘Shopstars’ kid’s club - a free, monthly educational workshop kicking off this Saturday 29th February from 12-4 pm.
Armagh Celebrates St Patrick With 12-day Festival
Ireland’s ecclesiastical capital, Armagh, has announced details of a 12-day festival spectacular to celebrate the life and times of St Patrick, the island’s world-famous patron saint.
National PR Awards Shortlist for LK Communications
LK Communications is delighted to be shortlisted in the PRCA Digital Awards 2020 for ‘Best Use Of Social Media Influencers in a Campaign’ for its work with Visit Belfast in delivering a powerful tourism destination campaign – ‘Make It Belfast’.
New Craigavon Leisure Centre on Track for Summer Opening
Six-month Countdown to Completion of Flagship South Lake Leisure Centre.
Volunteer Now Launches New Volunteering Platform in Partnership with Be Collective
Volunteer Now Launches New Volunteering Platform in Partnership with Be Collective.
Wirefox Commences World Class Grade A Office Development in Belfast
Construction of transformative city centre office development The Paper Exchange starts this week
Galgorm Heralds New Decade of Growth after £60m Investment
Galgorm Spa & Golf Resort has welcomed a new decade of growth after a 10-year, £60 million investment program which has transformed the Resort into a world-class international tourism destination. It also plans to invest an additional £20 million over the next five years.