DUNNES STORES is one of the biggest supermarket and clothing chains in the Republic, with 73 outlets throughout the State. The group is run by Mrs Margaret Heffernan and her brother, Mr Frank Dunne, who took over the reins following the removal of their brother, Mr Ben Dunne, four years ago.
The group has rarely been out of the news since the controversial removal of Mr Ben Dunne in the wake of an episode with cocaine in Florida. Since then, disputes between family members have been publicly aired, while poor relations with staff have led to strikes which have closed the company's branches for lengthy periods.
While its finances are a closely-guarded secret, a report published last year estimated the company's turnover, in the drapery and food sectors to be £900 million a year, generating profits of about £45 million.
Dunnes is currently estimated to have about 18 per cent of the Irish retail market, having slipped from more than 22 per cent over the past three years.
The company's business is understood to have been substantially damaged by the series of recent strikes. It is estimated to have lost up to £2.5 million alone during the two-week strike in late August and early September.
In a surprise move this year, Dunnes poached a top Quinnsworth executive, Mr Dick Reeves, who became its food director, while Mr Andrew Street joined its senior management team from Boots. These appointments were seen as part of a concerted effort by the group to regain its central position in Irish retailing and improve relations with staff.