Irish fashion and jewellery retailer Carraig Donn has announced a €1 million investment in two new stores in Mullingar and Douglas in Cork.

The investment, which will create 20 jobs, will also cover the refurbishment of its Liffey Valley store.

It will bring the company’s workforce to 450 and take the number of Carraig Donn outlets, separate from its extensive online operations, to 36.

Carraig Donn is now one of the largest solely Irish-owned retailers, with an estimated turnover of €40 million.

"Trading at Carraig Donn has gone from strength to strength in recent times, and this latest expansion is testament to the enduring appeal of this unique Irish brand," Pat Hughes, Carraig Donn chief executive, said.

“We feel that Carraig Donn offers something different to the Irish customer in terms of design, quality and price,” he said.

The two new stores are expected to be ready for the busy Christmas period.

Last year the Mayo-headquartered company made its first foray into the UK, opening two stores in Newcastle and Sheffield.

Mr Hughes said the firm had conducted extensive market research in both locations, and found a market niche for the brand.

EOIN BURKE-KENNEDY