Kainos HQ green light to see Trademarket quit site
The future of Trademarket street food outlet has been thrown into uncertainty after IT firm Kainos secured planning permission for its new headquarters on the Dublin Road site.
Belfast City Council has given the green light for Kainos’ Bankmore Exchange HQ and for Queen’s University to develop managed student accommodation next to the Kainos building.
The company’s temporary leasing agreement with Trademarket, which currently occupies the site, will end as planned on July 31 this year with the statement confirming the food venue is moving on “to new ventures”.
The construction of the new Kainos headquarters is set to begin in September and the project is scheduled for completion within 24 months, with Kainos aiming to take occupancy in early 2027.
The tech firm said the news signifies a major investment in the regeneration of the city’s Linen Quarter.
“The project will provide a state-of-the-art workspace for its people and contribute significantly to the economic and social fabric of Belfast,” stated the IT services company.
Russell Sloan, CEO at Kainos, added: “We are delighted to have received planning approval, and it is exciting to know we will be moving into our new headquarters at Bankmore Exchange in just a few years. This development not only marks a significant milestone in our journey but also reaffirms our commitment to Belfast, the city where Kainos was founded. As we look to the future, we are eager to continue making a positive impact, driving growth, and creating new opportunities in the region. I would also like to take a moment to thank Trademarket for their partnership. As they move on to new ventures, we wish them every success.
“Kainos is dedicated to fostering community development and enhancing the technological landscape in Belfast. The company is eager to see the positive changes its new headquarters will bring to the local community and industry.”
Queen’s University is planning to welcome students to their new facilities for the beginning of the September 2026 academic year.
Kainos now employs some 3,000 staff across its sites.
Last year, the FTSE 250 company announced it would invest £10m in the advancement and scaling of generative AI.
