Sainsbury’s has officially unveiled its revamped Hempstead Valley supermarket in Kent which showcases its latest product offer and format design.
After eight months of redevelopment works, Sainsbury’s stated that the 62,000 sq. ft. outlet has been transformed into a “next-generation state-of-the-art” store. As well as a revamped interior and signage, it is home to the first Sainsbury’s Fresh Food Market, a new-look café, and a dedicated on-the-go hub with snacking, coffee machine, fresh juicer and sushi bar.
A pilot of the Fresh Food Market concept at the store began in October. It uses a market-style presentation of fresh fruit and vegetables, new signage and a focus on seasonality and British Heritage. Sainsbury’s confirmed today that customer and staff feedback on the new food hall format and design had been positive and it would commence further trials across more stores in 2021. It did not specify which or how many stores.
The Kent store’s beauty department and clothing & home sections have also been overhauled, whilst the retailer has installed a new self-service patisserie counter and takeaway hot food bar. Meanwhile, the Sainsbury’s petrol station next door to the store has been redeveloped and now includes more on-the-go ranges and home essentials such as cleaning products and toiletries.
Sainsbury’s, which has operated from the Hempstead Valley site for over 40 years, said the renovations represent one of its largest single store investments in around 20 years. It highlighted that the changes are also expected to save on energy costs, whilst various in-store sustainability initiatives will contribute towards its target to be Net Zero across its own operations by 2040.
Commenting on the Hempstead Valley store, Sainsbury’s Property Director, Patrick Dunne said: “We have completed an extraordinary amount of work to improve the product and service experience for our local customers and we know the changes we have made will be enjoyed for many years to come.
“We will also use many of the learnings throughout the phases of work, together with the ongoing feedback from our customers and colleagues on our changes, to help us as we continue to invest in our stores. We’re investing in our stores because we want our stores to be a hub of inspiration to help our customers create the plate of food that best serves them and their family.”
NAM Implications:
- i.e. anticipate a roll-out as fast as Sainsbury’s can manage.
- And some what-ifs to that effect might help in optimising opportunities that might arise…
- ….or perhaps wait for a competitor to show you how.
