Henderson Retail acquires Annalong store to build on foundations set by retailer

It brings the total number of SPAR and EUROSPAR stores operated by the company in Northern Ireland to 105.

All 42 staff from the local community will be retained by Henderson Retail, alongside Store Manager, Derek McAllen and Post Office Manager, Mark Clerkin.

The Barbican has been run by Simon Heenan and his family since 1993, and rebranded to a SPAR in 2021. Since its rebrand, the new-look store has provided even more fresh groceries from local suppliers plus SPAR NI’s own-brand ranges for shoppers, alongside a host of value deals and seasonal campaigns.

The Post Office, which has been managed by Mark Clerkin since 2007, will remain in-store and provide everyday essential services for the area.

Mark McCammond, Retail Director at Henderson Group commented; “Simon and his family have grown a successful business with the Barbican store in Annalong, providing a fantastic opportunity for us to grow the SPAR brand upon their already solid foundations.

“This latest acquisition brings our total number of Henderson Retail operated stores in Northern Ireland to 105, while we have invested substantially this year in renovating and refreshing many of our neighbourhood stores to provide even more efficiency and essentials for our local shoppers.”

Store Manager, Derek McAllen says shoppers should still expect the usual excellent customer service and wide range of local products at value prices when visiting. “The store has been operating as a SPAR for two years now, and shoppers have responded well to the additional choice and value the brand has brought to the area. We will continue to support suppliers from our area, including Riverlodge Free Range Eggs from AJ Fresh Foods in Annalong and potatoes from nearby Purdy’s Farm.”

Simon Heenan added; “This is a bittersweet day, but I am so proud of the business my wife Barbara and I have built here in Annalong. The local community has supported us since day one and remained loyal throughout the changes in recent years. I am confident that under Derek’s leadership, the store will continue to serve our local community and I wish the team every success for the future. I’ll still be a loyal customer!”