AN award-winning UK bakery has outlined plans to open a number of new stores across Northern Ireland.
Cornwall-founded Warrens Bakery, which has over 70 stores across the UK, opened its first outlet in the north last week at the former home of Asher's Bakery.
Speaking to The Irish News the chain has now revealed its Royal Avenue store is set to be the first of "many" in the north after it launched a UK-wide franchising model last year.
Warrens Bakery representative, Carl Mortimer said the opportunity was right to expand into Northern Ireland.
“We’re really excited to be working with our franchise partner in Northern Ireland and delighted to open our first of what we hope will be many stores across the country," Mr Mortimer said.
"Northern Ireland represents a great opportunity for us and we look forward to bringing a little bit of Cornwall across the water.”
The new Royal Avenue store has initially created eight jobs with further employment opportunities to be created at additional outlets in the north.
The prime Royal Avenue site was vacated by Ashers in October after owner Daniel McArthur decided not to renew the lease, citing a lack of footfall as a direct result of the Primark fire on August 28.
Voted the UK's top craft bakery in 2018, Warrens Bakery dates back to 1860 and describes itself as the world's oldest pasty maker.
It is also recognised for its famous range of breads, freshly made sandwiches, sweet and savoury treats, tasty breakfast goods and on-the-go snacks.
