Superdrug has announced its intention to launch 30 new stores this year, which will result in the creation of approximately 600 job opportunities. The upcoming locations in England will include White Rose Leeds, Crawley, Waterlooville Retail Park, Newport Retail Park, and Isle of Wight. Additionally, Superdrug is set to open new stores in Scotland, including Dundee Gallagher Retail Park, Kilmarnock Retail Park, East Kilbride, Strathkelvin Retail Park, and Linwood Phoenix Retail Park, as well as Cwmbran Retail Park in Wales.
These new stores will feature Superdrug Beauty Studios offering services like ear piercing, manicures, and eyebrow threading. In addition to the store openings, Superdrug plans to complete 60 store refits this year. Currently, the health and beauty retailer operates over 780 shops across the UK and Ireland.
Superdrug executives stated that the decision to expand further is driven by robust customer demand in their stores. The company aims to invest in large-format destination stores and retail park locations to enhance the overall shopping experience. Clare Jennings, Superdrug’s property director, emphasized the importance of physical retail experiences and highlighted the company’s commitment to creating inclusive spaces that offer beauty, healthcare, and affordable treatments in local communities.
Moreover, M&S recently shared plans to open new stores in 500 desired locations to expand its food business. The retailer is seeking larger sites to accommodate a broader range of products and aims to double the size of its food business. This initiative includes areas without existing M&S stores such as Hove, Marlborough, and Wallingford. M&S is specifically interested in larger sites to stock a comprehensive range of M&S Food products, with an average store size target of 18,000 square feet.
As part of its expansion strategy, M&S plans to open or renovate 20 stores by the end of the financial year, leading to the creation of 800 new job positions. The focus is on increasing the size of its Food stores to offer a wider selection and attract more customers for their weekly grocery shopping needs.
