Debenhams has announced the purchase of Irish department store chain Roches Stores in a €29m (£19m) deal.

The nine stores, owned in leaseholds, has a total floor space of 500,000 sq ft (46,451 sq m) in locations including Henry Street, Dublin, Blanchardstown, Cork, Limerick and Galway.

The deal is still subject to clearance from the Irish Competition Authority.

The acquisition is being made through Debenhams Retail (Ireland) for E29m (£19m) plus the value of stock. It will be paid in three instalments, E15m (£10m) on completion, E5m (£3.3m) on the first anniversary and €9m (£6m) on the second anniversary of the deal.

Rob Templeman, chief executive officer, Debenhams said: ‘There are significant opportunities to grow our department store portfolio across the UK and Republic of Ireland at attractive returns. The acquisition of nine stores in the Republic of Ireland will considerably boost our local presence.’