Fitzgerald Group’s off-licences join Carry Out
The new trading partnership brings to 100 the number of independently-owned Carry Out off-licences now operating in Ireland. The 100th group store is Louis Fitzgerald’s Carry Out off-licence at The Penny Hill, in Lucan, west Dublin, recently rebranded in this major trade deal.
The Fitzgerald Group comprises 17 pubs including one in Galway and another in Maynooth, eight off-licences, two restaurants and three hotels altogether employing 900 people.
The Carry Out franchise, acquired by the Cork retail franchise and wholesale operation The Barry Group in 2009, complements the Group’s the convenience retail brands.
The new trading arrangement was welcomed by both Louis and his son Eddie Fitzgerald, the latter being the main instigator of the Carry Out off-licence deal.
“In reviewing our off-licence operations, Eddie was convinced of the benefits of being part of a strong national brand,” stated Louis Fitzgerald, “The enhanced services and range from Carry Out, as well as better buying power and price we could offer our customers was a key decider.”
Having the Fitzgerald Group as part of the Carry Out operation represents a major vote of confidence in the independent off-licence brand, believes Jim Barry, Managing Director of the Barry Group in Mallow.
“We’re delighted to welcome retailers of the calibre of the Fitzgerald Group on board and to celebrate the significant milestone of our 100th Carry Out off-licence in Ireland,” he said, “We see this move as a resounding endorsement for the excellent range, services and pricing that Carry Out offers independent off-licence operators across Ireland.”
Centralised supply and own-brand value ranges have been a key driver of business for the Carry Out franchise operation, according to Edwina Lucey, Sales Director at the Barry Group.
“Carry Out is now recognised across the country as the leading independent off-licence brand,” she maintains, “Centralised purchasing and distribution is helping drive our customers’ sales and margin and our unique own-label offerings allow members to provide excellent value and quality for consumers.”
The Carry Out’s own-brand and exclusive beer, wine and spirit collections have grown to account for almost 20% of total sales across the off-licence group.
