ALDI bosses are “working hard” to open a store that was severely damaged during Storm Eowyn last week.
The roof of the branch in Tullyvoheen, Clifden in Galway was destroyed as the destructive storm battered Ireland.
Bosses said an opening date has not yet been confirmed – with employees being moved to nearby stores for now.
A spokesperson: “Following substantial damage caused by Storm Eowyn, our Clifden store will remain closed while we carry out a full cleanup and repair, as well as assessing the full extent of the damage.
“We are committed to reopening as quickly and efficiently as possible.
“Our dedicated Clifden team is already working hard in managing the cleanup, while other colleagues have been redeployed to nearby stores while repairs are underway.
“Although we are working hard to reopen as soon as possible, we do not yet have a confirmed reopening date.
“We sincerely appreciate the patience and understanding of our colleagues and customers during this challenging time, and we look forward to welcoming you back to Aldi Clifden soon.”
Meanwhile, a number of Irish supermarkets have revealed their opening hours for this coming St Brigid’s bank holiday weekend.
Many around the country are already looking ahead to the long weekend with rugby fans gearing up for the Six Nations clash.
But for those hoping to pick up some last-minute groceries and treats before the long weekend, be aware that opening hours may vary.
Several supermarkets across Ireland have adjusted their hours to accommodate shoppers and staff over the busy weekend.
Many will operate at regular working hours, while others opt to open later than usual.
Here is a full breakdown of the list of the opening hours for Irish stores over the February bank holiday.
Aldi Ireland bosses confirmed its stores will be open from 8am–10pm as normal on Saturday, February 1, and from 9am–9pm on Sunday, February 2.
And shops will also open between 9am–9pm on Monday, February 3, for the St Brigid’s Day bank holiday.
On Monday, the Aldi in Swords will open from 10am–9pm.
The Laytown shop will operate from 11am–7pm and Dunshaughlin will open from 10am–9pm.
The supermarket giant will resume normal opening hours from 8am as usual on Tuesday, February 4.
The retailer advised customers to check details of local opening hours on ALDI’s website to avoid disappointment, as some stores’ hours “may vary slightly”.
Dunnes Stores shoppers are urged to check their local branch for opening times over the bank holiday as stores may open and close at different times.
Marks and Spencer bosses said the opening hours of stores differ depending on the store.
Shoppers are urged to use their shop locator for specific opening times here.
The supermarket giant has lots of offers in its stores for the long weekend.
Foodies can pick up an Indian Dine in meal with 1 Main and 1 Side for €10.
Pizza lovers can also opt for a Dine in meal with 1 Pizza and 1 Side for only €8.50.
And for those entertaining, there’s 20 per cent off selected Italian wine.
Lidl bosses confirmed the stores are operating normal hours on Saturday.
However, the supermarket will close early on Sunday and Monday of the bank holiday.
A spokesperson for Lidl said: “Lidl Ireland stores will be operating normal opening hours for Saturday the 1st of February, 8am to 10pm.
“On Sunday, the 2nd of February, and Monday, the 3rd of February, stores will open from 9am to 9pm.”
Supervalu customers will have different hours for different stores.
A spokesperson for Supervalu said: “Our stores are independently operated so hours may vary by store.
“Customers are encouraged to check the specific opening and closing times of their local store in advance.”
The majority of Tesco stores will open from 9am to 8pm on bank holiday Monday.
However, times may vary in some locations.
Customers are urged to check their local branch.
THE HISTORY OF ALDI
The German discount supermarket chain came to Ireland in 1999.
Aldi’s first few shops opened in November 1999, with locations in Sandyford, Dublin, and Ballincollig, Cork.
By the mid-2000s, Aldi bosses had opened numerous stores, focusing on providing high-quality products at low prices.
As the recession hit 2008-2012, Aldi’s popularity grew as consumers became more price-conscious.
The supermarket giant continued it’s expansion in Ireland between 2013-2018, while refurbishing existing stores.
By 2018, Aldi had over 130 shops throughout the country.
The chain began to focus on expanding its range of Irish-made products and supporting local producers.
In 2023, Aldi had over 140 stores in Ireland.
The store invested in sustainability initiatives, such as reducing plastic packaging and increasing the availability of organic and eco-friendly products.
Aldi chiefs said: “At Aldi we are committed to supporting Irish suppliers. Developed in partnership with Bord Bia, Grow with Aldi is designed to help the very best Irish suppliers develop their brand.
“To date, we’ve invested €10 million in our Grow with Aldi development programme in a bid to find the very best Irish suppliers.
“As a result, for a limited time only there are over 47 new products, from 27 Irish suppliers available in store.”
Aldi have introduced technological advancements with self-checkout systems and contactless payment options.
