Superquinn has today confirmed it intends to close its store in Naas, Co Kildare next month with the loss of up to 100 jobs.
The company said the decision to close the North Main Street store on Friday, February 4th was due to the expiry of the lease and the landlord's wish to take possession of the premises.
Superquinn had been intending to open a new store in the town on the site of the former St Patrick's Community College on the Newbridge Road, but this has been put on hold as a result of the decline in the property sector.
The retailer said it intended to offer employees the opportunity to work at alternative stores where possible.
A 30-day consultation will now commence with trade unions.
A spokesman for Mandate said it would be holding a meeting with Superquinn employees tomorrow.
Mandate assistant general secretary Gerry Light said staff at the store were "shocked and disappointed at today's news, particularly as the store is reported to be trading well.