Record opening day for Waitrose (From Free Press Series)

Record opening day for Waitrose

AFTER a race against time, supermarket firm Waitrose opened the doors to its new Abergavenny store last week, and the number of customers broke all records.

More people visited the store on the first day than at any other branch on opening day, said Gill Smith, press officer for Waitrose.

First through the door were customers Bill Kenwright, Cyril Reynolds and David James, who all received bouquets and Champagne.

The chain has taken just two weeks to completely renovate the former Safeway supermarket in Merthyr Road, Llanfoist.

Store manager Tim Hagan, who has been manager of Safeway's for the past two years, said: "I am sure Waitrose will fit in very well in the local area."

Mr Hagan said a significant amount of cash had been invested into the new branch and that former Safeway customers would not recognise the store.

Speaking before the opening he said: "This will be the second store to open in Wales. The contractor, Midas, has been working in 24-hour shifts for two weeks to get the store ready for opening.

He added: "The new store boasts a media area, fresh fish, veg and meat counter, delicatessen and extended range of food and wine.

"We have kept the coffee shop and will retain the pharmacy managed under Moss.

"I would encourage customers to come and look at quality and value.

"People come in through the door and are very excited. Everything from the decoration to quality is completely different."

Gill Smith added: "It offers a new dimension in quality and convenience to people visiting, working or living in Abergavenny."

Mark Price, director of selling and marketing said: "Waitrose customers expect the best value, and they will be pleased with what they find.

"We offer more than 1,000 organic products, more than 50 types of fish and seafood, fresh pastas, more than 100 different cheeses, and excellent British beef and lamb.

"Waitrose also enjoys one of the best reputations for dealing with its farmer suppliers."

Waitrose aims to work with small, local and regional producers. A selection of local and regional products have been selected by Waitrose buyers and the store has been in discussion with the Welsh Development Agency to extend this range.

In addition to fresh foods, the new Waitrose will operate a programme of in-store tasting, special seasonal offers, and offer help and advice on new dishes and recipes.