DUNNES Stores confirmed last night that it has successfully poached another top executive from a rival shop. Mr Don Nugent (39), the director of sales and merchandising at Clery's on O'Connell Street, will become head of Dunnes' home ware division. Before his move to Clery's Mr Nugent managed The Square shopping centre in Tallaght and worked for Switzers.

Industry observers said the move formed part of a plan by Dunnes to upgrade its management team. In recent months, the company has persuaded a Quinnsworth executive, Mr Dick Reeves, and Mr Andrew Street of Boots the Chemists to join.