Here’s a shocking reality check for shoppers and employees alike: two beloved Dunnes Stores grocery locations in Dublin are set to close their doors this month, leaving many to wonder what’s next for the retail giant. But here’s where it gets even more unsettling—this news comes just a week after the announcement that the Dunnes Stores outlet on West Street in Drogheda, a staple for 50 years, will also shut down by month’s end. Is this a sign of shifting priorities, or something more troubling?
One of the Dublin stores facing closure is the quaint grocery shop in Cornelscourt village, which will bid its final farewell this weekend. Interestingly, the larger store in the Cornelscourt Shopping Centre on Bray Road remains untouched—for now. Meanwhile, the second Dublin location affected is the grocery section of one of Dunnes Stores’ Ilac Centre branches in the city centre, slated to close on October 31st, though the rest of the store will stay open. But here’s the part most people miss: despite these closures, staff at both Dublin locations have been assured they’ll be relocated to other Dunnes Stores outlets. Still, it’s hard not to question the timing and strategy behind these moves.
The Drogheda store closure alone impacts 27 employees, many of whom have dedicated up to 20 years of service. Understandably, they’re feeling ‘shocked and disappointed,’ according to reports. Similarly, Dublin staff are expected to be redeployed to nearby stores in Louth, with trade union Mandate reportedly in talks to support affected workers. But is relocation enough to ease the blow of losing a long-standing workplace?
What makes this situation even more perplexing is that Dunnes Stores’ financial performance seems to be thriving. Accounts filed in September by the Northern Irish arm of the company revealed a staggering 44% surge in profits last year. Dunnes Stores (Bangor) raked in a profit of £14.1 million (€16 million) in 2024, up from £9.8 million in 2023, and a significant leap from £2.6 million in 2022. So, why close stores when profits are booming? Is this a strategic pivot, or a cost-cutting measure disguised as progress?
These closures offer a rare glimpse into Dunnes Stores’ financial health, as the parent entity isn’t required to file accounts due to its corporate structure. But the question remains: what does this mean for the future of Dunnes Stores, its employees, and its loyal customers? Are these closures an isolated incident, or the beginning of a larger trend? We’ve reached out to Dunnes Stores and the Ilac Centre for comment, but in the meantime, one thing is clear—change is afoot, and it’s leaving many with more questions than answers. What do you think? Is this a smart business move, or a misstep? Let’s hear your thoughts in the comments!
