Ardee Retailer Eamonn Kerr Appointed to Board of National Hardware Group United Hardware
United Hardware, Ireland’s leading buying and marketing group for builders’ merchants and DIY stores, has announced the proposed appointment of Eamonn Kerr of Ferdia Homevalue in Ardee to its Board of Directors.
Eamonn Kerr, representing Ferdia Homevalue in Ardee, is one of three new directors set to join the United Hardware DAC Board, subject to member ratification at the next AGM. He joins Conall Quinn of Tyrone and Keith Cronin of West Cork in these strategic roles.
The Three New Appointees:
- Eamonn Kerr: Ferdia Homevalue, Ardee, Co. Louth
- Conall Quinn: Quinn Building Supplies, Dungannon, Co. Tyrone
- Keith Cronin: Cronin’s Homevalue, Ballylickey, Co. Cork
Strengthening the Independent Voice
According to United Hardware, these appointments are designed to further strengthen the voice of the Group’s independent members at board level. As the group advances plans for strategic acquisitions and continued growth in 2026, the experience of these local merchants ensures the board remains shaped by the realities facing independent businesses.
A National Impact with Local Roots
United Hardware operates the well-known Homevalue retail brand and supports a network of over 170 independently owned stores across Ireland. The group employs approximately 2,000 people and serves as a locally owned, Guaranteed Irish accredited business focused on empowering local retailers through purchasing power and business advisory services.
Eoin McGettigan noted that as the group looks ahead to 2026, these appointments will be instrumental in guiding the next phase of growth through member recruitment and selective partnerships.
The Ardee Post extends its congratulations to Eamonn Kerr and the team at Ferdia Homevalue on this significant achievement for the town’s retail sector.
Padel Power: Planning Permission Sought to Transform Dundalk Warehouse into Indoor Sports Facility
Plans have been submitted to Louth County Council for a major redevelopment of a warehouse unit on the Coes Road, which could see the site transformed into a premier indoor padel tennis and fitness hub.
The application, recently lodged with the local authority, seeks a “change of use” for the existing warehouse structure. If approved, the site will be repurposed to house a multi-use sports complex centered around padel tennis—a rapidly growing sport that combines elements of tennis and squash.
A Multi-Use Wellness Destination
The vision for the Coes Road facility goes beyond just the courts. According to the planning documents, the development is set to include:
- Indoor Padel Tennis Courts: High-specification playing areas protected from the elements.
- Gym & Weight Training: A dedicated area for strength and conditioning.
- Recovery Room: Modern facilities for athlete rehabilitation and wellness.
- Ancillary Café: A seating area and reception to serve as a social hub for patrons.
- Changing Facilities: On-site bathrooms and locker rooms.
Revitalizing Industrial Spaces
The proposed transformation follows a growing trend of repurposing vacant industrial units into community-focused recreational spaces. By utilizing the high ceilings and large floor plates of existing warehouses, developers can create specialized sports environments that would otherwise require significant new-build investment.
Located in the Coes Road Industrial Estate area, the facility would be easily accessible to both the local population and the wider commuter belt.
Next Steps
Louth County Council is currently reviewing the application (Ref: 2660174). A decision on the proposal is expected by early June 2026. Members of the public can view the full plans and submit observations through the council’s e-planning portal.
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