Sales at convenience retailer Supervalu grew by 4.7 per cent to €1.75 billion last year as the number of outlets under the brand reached 182.
The company said it achieved this sales growth on the back of falling food prices in 2004.
Supervalu managing director Donal Horgan told delegates at the National Conference in Killarney that 14 new stores had opened last year and that 10 were planned to open this year.
Mr Horgan said Supervalue now employs over 12,600 people and was heavily committed to supporting the indigenous food sector.
He said €65 million was invested by retailers in new store developments in 2004, adding 165,000 square feet of retail space. An additional €50 million has been invested in store refurbishments in 22 outlets.
Mr Horgan also welcomed the findings of the Joint Oireactas Committee on Enterprise and Small Business hearing's into proposed changes to the Groceries Order.