A retailer in Stamford opened a new Costcutter store this month to further support the growing demand for shopping locally within the community.

Emily Rosa Ranjini doubled the size of her existing store by purchasing the unit next door to create a brand new 2,000 sq. ft store and invested over £180,000 in the refit.

The new store, which opened on Saturday, 11th July, features the fascia format and interior finish, developed through Costcutter Supermarket Group’s unique Shopper First: Drive Five to Thrive business growth programme.

Using shopper data, which pinpointed Habitual Browsers, Busy Impulsers and Younger Tonighters representing a fair share of all shopper personas, key categories within the store now include an extensive chilled range.

A hot food offering has also been included, while shoppers can choose from a wide selection of store cupboard essentials, frozen goods, alcohol, plus over 1,000 Co-op Own Brand products.

To complement the food-to-go range, Ms Ranjini also installed a Costa Coffee and F’real milkshake machines alongside a One-Shot self-service ice cream machine, which are already proving a draw.

As well as the structural work to combine the two retail units, the redevelopment also included the installation of 11 ZEAS condensing refrigeration units, over 68 metres of shelving, new flooring, ceilings and an LED lighting system.

To ensure the safety of shoppers and staff during the COVID-19 pandemic, Ms Ranjini also introduced a range of safety measures including hand sanitiser stations, a one-way system and clear signage to help shoppers stay socially distant.

Commenting on the store opening, Emily Rosa Ranjini said: “We’re absolutely thrilled with the new store, in fact the transformation couldn’t have been more dramatic.

“By working closely with the Costcutter team, who guided and supported us through every stage of the process from the extension to range selection, we are now able to provide local shoppers with everything they need for a ‘full shop’ right here in their local store.

“We’ve already had some very positive and encouraging feedback from shoppers who are delighted with the range and offering we’ve created.”