Brand new Centra at the Port of Larne – Second Store for the Lusty Family

Local convenience store unveils impressive new look following £150,000 revamp 

The Lusty family, already owners of a Centra located in the town centre, has opened the doors to their second store at Larne Port.  The revamped Centra store, located on Redlands Road, is a welcome addition to the area supporting 15 jobs with plans to increase employment later in the year.

It’s the second big win for Larne in recent living history – as the town’ football team lifted its first senior silverware success in 33 years – with the County Antrim shield.

Covid-19 restrictions meant the big match took place in an empty stadium, the Larne faithful – both at home and away – made sure the football world knew they were delighted.

And the community has a second reason to celebrate – with the new Centra at the Port of Larne – which is really something special for both the town and its passing trade.

Following an extensive refurbishment, the store includes a large petrol forecourt, a hot and cold deli, a spacious seating area as well as Frank & Honest coffee, Ireland’s largest on-the-go gourmet coffee brand.  With ample parking on site alongside an electric car charging port, all needs are catered for.

Proud and excited

Owner Raymond Lusty said “We are both proud and excited to unveil our newly developed store and look forward to welcoming customers whether travelling through the port or visiting the amenities nearby.  Our team has been working hard over the past few months to bring this store to fruition and now, our focus turns to ensuring our customers enjoy all that is on offer as well as our great customer service.

“In just five weeks we totally revamped the site and took it up to trend with the opening of our deli and refurbished layout.

Family business

“Although an addition to the family business, this is the first store I can call my own. It’s been a real team effort and I’d really like to say thank you to the new staff we’ve taken on, and to the family. We’re delighted to be supporting 15 new jobs in Larne.

“I’d also like to say a huge thank you to the whole team at our Centra in the town centre who also helped out n whatever way they could. It’s been a real team effort.

“All our contractors and suppliers have done an amazing job – I’m really grateful for all the support we’ve had to get this turned around so quickly.

“My mum and dad were supportive as always, and I’d just like to say a huge thank you to them and my wonderful wife Hannah” said Raymond.

Cosy sit-in area

The new Centra at the Port of Larne features a hot and cold food bar and deli, Frank & Honest coffee. We’ve also incorporated a cosy sit-in area for people to relax and enjoy their delicious hot or cold food before continuing on their journey.

“Larne is a busy port at the best of times, and some travel restrictions being eased, people are starting to venture out and about and take holidays and short breaks again” said Raymond.

“It was a real boost for the staff and customers when the shield came to the shop to celebrate our opening. We were delighted and it made everything seem even more special.

“I couldn’t have done it without the help of everyone, even though this is the first store I can call my own – my wife, family, staff, customers and the whole community have all been amazing.”

Vital link for the economy

The Port of Larne is also a vital link for the entire economy in Northern Ireland – so the new Lusty’s Centra at Larne Port is a welcome addition – not just serving the local community, but the people passing to and fro the Port on business or pleasure.

“With ample parking, a large petrol forecourt and an electric charging point – we feel that we’re able to give all our customers, both regular and passing trade, everything they need to fuel their journey – from a hot meal, a warm comforting coffee, a delicious healthy deli meal, an extensive range of cold drinks and selection of grocery and confectionery.

Trevor Magill, Managing Director for Musgrave Northern Ireland said “We are delighted to see this refurbishment completed, a welcome addition to the growing Centra portfolio, and wish Raymond and his team all the very best.”