The people of Bray are in party mode as the town celebrates the opening of Wicklow’s first-ever Penneys store.

The 19,600 sq. ft store set in the Bray Central shopping centre cost €4m to develop and will create 100 jobs in the town.

Sandie Stanley, who owns the nearby Boomerang Bar, said she had decided to throw a party in the shop’s honour due to the “great hope” it had brought the town. 

“The town needs it badly.”

Bray is in party mode as the town celebrates the opening of Wicklow’s first-ever #Penneys store.

— NewstalkFM (@NewstalkFM) July 18, 2024

“We just decided, sure why not celebrate something that we’ve been waiting on for so long?” she told Newstalk. 

“I mean, there’s been a giant hole in the town for donkeys’ years. 

“We have spot prizes, live music at 4PM. 

“It’s just all about having a bit of fun and celebrating the fact that they’re here.” 

Penneys Bray Store Opening. 18/07/2024/ Image: Penneys.

Lisa Rocca, CEO of the development company behind Bray Central, said the opening had brought a huge amount of “excitement and anticipation” to the town.

“We are so proud that such a fantastic Irish retailer and success story is now opening in Bray,” she said. 

“We wish everyone many happy shopping and visitor experiences at Bray Central.” 

Out on the streets of Bray, locals were enthusiastic about the new arrival. 

“I think it’s great,” one woman said. 

“I think it’ll give the town a boost - definitely.” 

While another woman said she wished it had opened years ago but said she was “happy” to see it open now. 

“The town needs it badly,” one man said 

“It was going downhill.” 

Opening of Penneys in Bray. 18/07/2024. Image: Newstalk

Minister of State for Business Emer Higgins welcomed the “significant boost” to the local economy the new store will bring. 

“Penney's expansion into Bray with their 38th store, along with their broader investment plans for Ireland, highlights the crucial role that retail plays in fostering vibrant communities across the country,” she said. 

“This new store, which is a fantastic addition to Bray town centre, is expected to increase foot traffic and benefit surrounding retailers.”

The opening comes just after Bray was hailed as the one of the world's most 'underrated travel destinations' by travel outlet TimeOut.

Main image: Penneys Split. Picture by: Penneys and Newstalk.