Superdrug has announced intentions to launch 30 fresh outlets this year, resulting in the creation of approximately 600 job opportunities. Among the new store locations in England are White Rose Leeds, Crawley, Waterlooville Retail Park, Newport Retail Park, and Isle of Wight.
Additionally, Superdrug will be introducing new stores in Scotland, including Dundee Gallagher Retail Park, Kilmarnock Retail Park, East Kilbride, Strathkelvin Retail Park, Linwood Phoenix Retail Park, and Cwmbran Retail Park in Wales. These stores will feature Superdrug Beauty Studios offering services like ear piercing, manicures, and eyebrow threading.
The company also aims to refurbish 60 stores during the year. Currently operating over 780 shops in the UK and Ireland, Superdrug’s decision to expand further is driven by robust customer demand. The focus will be on enhancing large-format destination stores and retail park locations.
Clare Jennings, Superdrug’s property director, emphasized the brand’s commitment to physical retail experiences, stating that the new store openings signify confidence in traditional retail. By investing in new stores, Superdrug aims to provide comprehensive beauty, healthcare, and affordable treatment offerings in welcoming community spaces.
In parallel news, M&S has unveiled plans to broaden its food business by doubling the size of its stores and targeting 500 new locations. The retailer is keen on establishing larger sites to accommodate a broader range of M&S Food products, with a focus on expanding the Food stores to an average size of 18,000 square feet.
M&S is set to open or renew 20 stores by the end of the fiscal year, leading to the creation of 800 job opportunities. The objective is to enlarge the Food stores to enhance the product range and attract more customers for their regular grocery shopping needs.