RE: Aberdeen store27 Sep 2023 14:41
Growing our estate of new format stores
Our successful store refit programme continued with six refits in the first half at Shipley, Blackpool, Haverfordwest, Stafford, Nuneaton and Braintree. Sales uplifts remain strong, driven by an uplift in DIFM of over 50%. Our refitted stores also benefit from an improved order fulfilment layout which increases click & collect capacity. This is clearly resonating with customers with click & collect participation increasing across the chain.
Despite the impact of higher build costs, store investments continue to deliver a ROIC of over 25%. A further five refits are planned for the second half.
Our new store opening programme is gathering pace. One new store opened in July at Chelmsford, and we expect two further openings at Widnes and Torquay in the second half. We remain confident in the opportunity to expand our proven model into 20 new locations over a five-year period.