Retailer Spar is to open 50 new shops over next two years creating up to 1,000 new jobs. The positions will be both full and part time and will be in place by 2016.

Spar owner, BWG Group, will invest up to €100m in store development across its network over the next five years.

The funds will be used to expand the existing retail network across the country, as well as assist existing retailers with refurbishment and expansion plans.

Over €5m will also be invested in a new store design, which will be rolled out to more than 100 new stores.

Addressing retailers, BWG Group CEO Leo Crawford said, "The retail sector makes a hugely important contribution to the Irish economy. Our planned store growth over the next two years and the new jobs that will be created will contribute to the economic recovery especially in the local urban and rural communities in which our Spar stores are located."

Spar provides employment to more than 14,000 people.

Meanwhile, 200 new jobs are on the way in Cork and Tipperary.

SolarWinds is creating 100 new positions in Mahon in Cork - and Ribworld is to take on 100 people in Fethard, Co Tipperary.