The Big 4-O – Forty years for the Clarke family and their VIVO store
A Rostrevor retailer is celebrating 40 years as a ViVO this month and is marking the occasion by celebrating with their local community and shoppers.
Originally trading as Clarkes VG since 1952, the Clarke family’s store has been a pillar in the local community for almost 70 years with their ViVO serving the area with not only the freshest produce and every day essentials, but by supporting local groups and organisations.
Kieran Clarke, his team and family currently support St. Bronagh’s GAA and Rossowen Soccer Club, as well as regularly fundraising for Life and Time, the end-of-life care service in nearby Warrenpoint.
Kieran commented; “It’s hard to believe the family has been trading with our business for nearly 70 years, and for 40 as a ViVO. Being part of the community is the most important part of our business as it gives us the opportunity to support those vital sports teams for young and old throughout the area, as well as supporting the charities that do so much for ours and the surrounding communities.”
Larger premises
Clarke’s ViVO originally resided at Kilbrony Road before moving to its current location at Newtown Road in 2000 after a £300,000 investment. The larger premises meant a wider range of products for shoppers to choose from including produce from top local suppliers, weekly deals and takeaway coffees from Barista Bar.
To celebrate their milestone, the store is doing a Facebook giveaway for four lucky shoppers to win a £40 voucher each.
The Clarke’s also recently welcomed the team from Henderson Group, which owns the ViVO brand in Northern Ireland. Business Development Manager, Jamie Graham attended the store’s celebrations as a recognition of the team’s achievements and for reaching the milestone. Jamie presented Kieran with a special 40th anniversary plaque, celebration cake and a bouquet of flowers.
