The opening of our state-of-the-art new distribution centre in Newbridge is one of the largest buildings in Ireland and our single biggest investment made here since entering the Irish market in 2000. The project created over 2,000 jobs during the building phase, followed by the creation of a further 100 new full-time roles on completion. These new full-time positions are in addition to the 250 permanent staff who will move over from our existing distribution centre in Newbridge.
Sustainability and energy efficiency were fundamental in the design of the new distribution centre. We have invested €1 million in a rooftop solar panel array - the largest rooftop solar array in this country. Over 25% of the centre's energy requirements will now be generated by solar power and the remainder by our commitment to 100% green electricity. Other sustainability and biodiversity initiatives include heat recovery from our refrigeration, natural refrigerants used in our coldrooms, a commitment of zero waste to landfill, underground rainwater storage tanks, 4 acres of wildflower meadows, 8 EV chargers and woodland areas with over 5,500 native trees.