Waitrose has outlined its programme of expansion; its first sustained estate growth in nearly a decade. Supported by a £1 billion investment plan spanning its shops, online offer, and partnerships across on-demand grocery and travel retail, Waitrose said it aims to give customers more flexibility in how, when, and where they shop.

The move, which comes during a strong period of growth for the retailer, includes the introduction of its new ‘neighbourhood’ concept at its brand-new shop in Chelmer Village, Essex. The concept bridges the gap between a convenience store and a full-line supermarket.

The 7,000 sq ft mid-sized stores are designed for busy neighbourhoods where Waitrose is already popular, offering a fast, easy shopping experience with an intuitive layout. The stores, which will stock more than 6,500 products, fulfil a variety of customer needs, from fresh top-up shopping to tonight’s dinner, and discovering something new.

The £1 billion investment includes 28 refurbishments and highly targeted expansion across multiple formats this year alone. Three new supermarkets will open this year in Manchester (Hale Barns), London (Cricklewood) and Bristol) Brabazon), alongside the first Neighbourhood store (Chelmer Village), and a new convenience store in Ascot, which will open in the Autumn. Waitrose also plans to scale its presence in major transport hubs with four new Relay shops opening at Heathrow Terminal 2, alongside existing partnerships with 35 Welcome Break sites and 107 Shell forecourts.

Waitrose will also open its first distribution centre in Avonmouth, South West England, early next year.

Tina Mitchell, retail director, Waitrose, said: “As the ‘Home of Food Lovers,’ our growth is shaped by adapting to how our customers live and shop. Today’s consumers no longer rely on a single weekly trip to the supermarket; grocery shopping is an omnichannel experience.

“Backed by our multi-year £1 billion investment plan, our ambition is to be wherever our customers want us. We are looking for high footfall, ‘right size, right location’ sites nationwide to make it easier than ever for people to experience our uncompromising standards, quality and expert Partner service.”