SPAR Graiguecullen marks successful relaunch following major investment and refit of the Carlow store
SPAR Graiguecullen marks one year since major refurbishment, enhancing store experience with new features and community focus
Print10 April 2026
SPAR Graiguecullen (Co. Carlow) has recently celebrated the successful relaunch of its extensively refurbished store following a significant investment carried out in partnership with BWG Foods.
The relaunch marks one year since the store completed its major refit, which has transformed the long‑established SPAR outlet, located in the Shamrock Business Park in Carlow, into a modern and customer‑focused convenience destination.
The revitalised store now features an upgraded deli counter, a dedicated seating area, a new fresh cream cake bakery range, an off‑licence offering and a refreshed layout designed to enhance the overall customer experience.
Owned and operated by the Cantillon Group, the Graiguecullen store has been serving the local community since 2007 and forms part of a broader portfolio that includes two additional SPAR stores and five Maxol locations across Cork and Waterford.
The Graiguecullen team of 20 staff is recognised for its outstanding loyalty and longevity.
Shane Cantillon, managing director of Cantillon Group said: “This relaunch was never just about the store’s physical transformation.
“It’s about ensuring our colleagues have a great workplace and our customers have a modern and welcoming local space to meet, enjoying the quality hot and cold food or drinks, along with the increased range and value on offer.
“We are incredibly proud of the team here and I want to pay credit to the store manager, Noel Kavanagh who, along with the staff, has shown continued commitment to excellence and helped drive the store’s success.”
Commenting on the relaunch, Colin Donnelly, SPAR sales director, said: “The transformation of SPAR Graiguecullen is a great example of the commitment and excellent service that our independent retailers bring to their local communities.
“The Cantillon Group has delivered a fantastic customer‑focused store that reflects the highest standards of the SPAR brand.
“We are proud to support Shane, Noel and the entire team, whose dedication is clearly evident in the loyalty of their customers and the enthusiasm surrounding this relaunch.
“We look forward to seeing SPAR Graiguecullen continue to thrive in the years ahead.”
Community at the heart of the celebration
That team ethos and local community spirit was central to the launch festivities.
Also taking part in the celebrations was Breda, who is one of those long-serving team members. She is now approaching a decade with SPAR after returning from retirement because she “missed it so much”.
The store’s eldest customer, Rose Kenna, who is in her 90s, was also on hand to perform the ribbon‑cutting duties for the day.
The celebration series, themed “Fresh Look, Fresh Fun”, ran over several weeks and included:
- A family‑focused midterm event featuring Smooch giveaways, a visit from the Smooch Cow, face painting, and a children’s colouring competition
- In‑store SPAR Rewards support to encourage loyalty programme sign‑ups
- Tastings from the new fresh cream cake range, complimentary tea and coffee, and multiple hamper giveaways
- A grand finale event including Spin & Win prizes, free Slushee Jacks, and half‑price chicken rolls
The launch event also included a special live outside broadcast with KCLR 96FM presenter Brian Redmond, along with a visit from Mr Tayto, creating a festive atmosphere enjoyed by customers of all ages.
With strong local roots, a loyal team and continued investment in both product and experience, SPAR Graiguecullen looks forward to many more years serving the people of Carlow and beyond.
Read more: EUROSPAR partners with Junk Kouture
© 2026, ShelfLife by Ryan Brennan
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