ONE of Cork’s most famous fast food outlets is expanding in Munster and generating new jobs.Hillbilly’s is investing €600,000 in a new operation in Ennis with the creation of 15 jobs. Established in Cork in 1997, the takeaway which specialises in "a breast in a bun" burger, has grown to become a multimillion euro company, according to its owner.
Speaking about the expansion, Michael Grace said: "We are delighted to open in Ennis – the boutique capital of Ireland, and create additional employment here. In times of recession Hillbilly’s see the necessity to invest and develop its network to ensure that we maintain our position as market leader in Ireland. Fast food can be nutritious and tasty and our focus is to maintain the highest quality standards at a competitive price."
The company said that where possible it sources its ingredients from Irish suppliers. It has nine outlets in Cork, Dublin, Tralee, Carlow and Waterford. Lord Mayor of Ennis, Cllr Frankie Neylon, will officially open the outlet on O’Connell Street, Ennis today. According to the Hillbilly’s website, one of the company’s outlets can generate turnover of €25,000 a week.
Meanwhile, figures from Just-Eat.ie found that Irish people munched their way through up to €780 million worth of takeaway food last year, making them the biggest spenders on takeaway food in Europe. According to James Galvin, managing director of Just-Eat.ie, the market for takeaways and fast food is growing in Europe at 9% year-on-year.
