Tesco Ireland is to create 1,500 new jobs in a major expansion of its Irish operations.
The announcement was made by the Taoiseach, Mr Ahern, at an event to mark the fifth anniversary of Tesco's partnership with Irish food companies.
Six new supermarkets will be opened and several stores will be expanded in an investment worth €100 million.
Up to 400 jobs will be created at a previously announced new distribution centre in north Dublin.