Limerick’s cafe culture gets a boost with Costa opening

LIMERICK’s cafe culture has received another boost after coffee shop giant Costa Coffee opened on Cruises Street.

Costa Coffee opened its fourth store in Limerick - and first in the city centre - in the former HMV building at the Cruises Street/O’Connell Street junction.

A total of 15 jobs have been created, and the investment was hailed as “a vote of confidence” in the city by Mayor Michael Sheahan.

“We thought it was a good location to open in. It is a prime location in the city centre. We have enjoyed a positive reaction from people since we came,” a spokesperson for the popular coffee chain said.

Speaking after he cut the ribbon at the store, Mayor Sheahan said: “I am absolutely delighted with the confidence Costa Coffee is showing to develop its business in downtown Limerick city centre.

“It is obvious for the short time they have been open that there has been huge footfall. It is another massive addition for all ages, particularly young people who like their coffees.”

Brian McMahon, head of operations at Costa Ireland said: “We’re delighted to be opening our new Costa Coffee on Cruises Street with the creation of new jobs. This will be our fourth location in Limerick, and we think we’ve found another perfect location for our customers to relax and enjoy our barista handcrafted coffee and tempting selection of food.”

The jobs created in a mix of full-and-part time positions will allow staff to develop their career with Costa Coffee, he added. Founded by Italian brothers Sergio and Bruno Costa in London in 1971, Costa now has four outlets in Limerick, the others at Childer’s Road retail park, Crescent Shopping Centre and in the Odeon, Castletroy.