Some 480 jobs are to be created at retail group Gala, it has been announced.
The company, which plans to open 30 new stores in 2007, said hundreds of positions would be available in both the wholesale and retail sectors.
The expansion comes after 615 jobs were created this year through a €48 million investment in the business.
The announcement was made at Gala's annual conference in Athlone, which was attended by Minister for Finance Brian Cowen.
Gala is Ireland's fastest-growing convenience retailer, with 220 stores employing more than 3,500 people.
PA
