Wholesaler Musgrave MarketPlace has officially opened its new ‘Next Generation Food Emporium’ in Belfast following a £600,000 upgrade, unveiling a significantly enhanced offer for hospitality, retail and public customers.
Located at Duncrue Industrial Estate, the revamped wholesale depot forms part of Musgrave MarketPlace’s long-term strategy to redefine food and beverage wholesaling across Northern Ireland and deliver a best-in-class experience for its growing customer base.
The updated Belfast Food Emporium now offers over 500 additional products, alongside a refreshed layout designed to make shopping easier for foodservice operators and independent retailers.
A standout feature of the upgrade is the enhanced Food Theatre, which will host product demonstrations, menu-planning sessions and training services. These will be led by a dedicated development chef, offering practical support and inspiration for customers. The space will also be used to facilitate industry events and supplier showcases.
The Food Theatre at Musgrave's new ‘Next Generation Food Emporium’ in BelfastPhoto: Musgrave Group
Speaking at the launch, John McGinnity, head of wholesale and foodservice for Musgrave Northern Ireland, said the investment represents a major step in the group’s wholesale evolution.
“We are committed to offering the most extensive food and beverage range at exceptional value, supported by a market-leading service proposition,” he stated. “And through the expertise of a new development chef, we can provide an added level of service and inspiration.”
The depot has also introduced a significantly upgraded beverage zone, now stocking more than 850 products. The expanded selection spans premium spirits, wines curated by Robb Brothers Wine Merchants, champagne, RTDs and premixed cocktails, soft drinks, and an extensive range of alcohol-free alternatives.
The ‘Foods of the World Zone’ at Musgrave's new ‘Next Generation Food Emporium’ in BelfastPhoto: Musgrave Group
The revamped store now features a new ‘Foods of the World Zone’, reflecting rising demand for global flavours across both retail and foodservice. Dedicated sections showcase Italian food range Italicatessen, as well Chinese, Indian, Japanese, Korean, Mexican, Thai and USA products.
Sustainability upgrades
In line with Musgrave Group’s wider net zero target for 2040, the Belfast branch has undergone a major environmental refit. This includes:
- Energy-efficient LED lighting
- Doored refrigeration and freezers
- Digital screens to reduce printed material
- Extensive solar panel installation, completed earlier this year
The solar array – part of a separate £550,000 investment – covers 3,800 sqm and is expected to generate 6 million kWh of clean electricity over 15 years, saving an estimated £1.53 million in energy costs.
The enhanced beverage zone at Musgrave's new ‘Next Generation Food Emporium’ in Belfast offers more than 850 productsPhoto: Musgrave Group
The Duncrue site currently serves over 23,000 hospitality and retail customers, making it one of Northern Ireland’s key wholesale hubs.
Musgrave MarketPlace is part of the wider Musgrave Group, which also includes premium and specialist foodservice brands such as La Rousse Foods and Italicatessen.