The great retail revival: activity rises as the fightback gathers pace

With both Irish and international firms snapping up vacant spaces around the country, things are looking brighter for a sector long ravaged by Covid-19 restrictions

Another former Debenham store in the Square in Tallaght has been taken by Penney’s, while The Range is due to open in the former Debenham store at Manor West Shopping Centre in Tralee, Co Kerry. Picture: Giles Rocholl

Agents are reporting increased activity by international and Irish retailers in taking space around the country and in Dublin, following the reopening of many businesses in recent weeks.

This is mainly reflected in how a number of the retail stores vacated by Debenhams have been snapped up. Sources indicate that English businessman Mike Ashley is about to take a former Debenham store in Blanchardstown for his Fraser chain, which has already taken two former Debenham ...