Ikea Waterford welcomes its first ever customers

At the official opening of Ikea last week, eager local shoppers got their first glimpse of the new Waterford premises.

The official opening was attended by Mayor of Waterford Cllr. Seamus Ryan alongside Minister Mary Butler, Minister John Cummins, local councillors, and community members.

Waterford local Liam Byrne was the store's first ever customer, and received a special hamper to mark the occasion.

The new location is IKEA's largest store outside Dublin, and 15 new co-workers have been employed from the locality.

The store features a number of displays and has 100 products available for immediate purchase.

In officially launching the premises, Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr. Séamus Ryan complimented the 15 new local staff members, saying, “they’re the number one people here today in my eyes". 

Mayor Ryan added that he believes that the store will prove popular amongst Waterford shoppers.

"There's great support locally for this store," he said, "and we’ll do all we can to support this store and see can we get it to expand even." 

Ministers Mary Butler and John Cummins said the opening clearly showed that multinational companies are confident in investing in Waterford.

Minister Butler said: “the fact that such a renowned and reputable multinational company such as IKEA has chosen our county to expand its Irish footprint is a huge vote of confidence in the economic robustness of Waterford City and the South East region.” 

Minister Cummins added: “It’s a clear vote of confidence in Waterford as a hub for growth and opportunity and this investment will deliver economic benefits, create jobs and enhance Waterford’s profile as a destination for global brands."

Jayne Owen Gauld, Market Manager, IKEA Ireland said: “Waterford is a truly vibrant city and we are excited to become a valuable and active member of the Waterford community."