- New Waitrose supermarkets planned for Hale Barns, South Manchester, and Cricklewood, North West London
- More than 30,000 sq ft of selling spaces across both shops, due to open this autumn
- Openings are part of Waitrose’s £1bn multi-year investment programme
Waitrose is investing in two full-line supermarkets in Hale Barns, South Manchester, and Cricklewood, North West London, as it continues to reach more customers in new areas.
The stores, totalling more than 30,000 sq ft of selling space, are expected to open in the autumn. They mark the latest step in Waitrose’s £1bn, multi-year investment programme, focused on improving shops, service and convenience for customers.
At present both sites are leased by Asda - Hale Barns is currently trading, while Cricklewood is a newly developed site. Asda employees working at Hale Barns will become Waitrose Partners and recruitment will take place to fill additional roles at both stores.
Tina Mitchell, Waitrose Retail Director, said: “These two new shops are an important step in our plans to bring Waitrose to more customers. We want to be in the places that matter most to our customers, offering the quality, service and convenience they expect from Waitrose, while continuing to invest in our existing shops and wider network.”
The news follows Waitrose’s announcement that it is launching into airport travel retail for the first time, with Waitrose products to be stocked in four RELAY stores in Heathrow Terminal 2.
The move forms part of Waitrose’s wider growth strategy, which includes opening in new locations, expanding through additional channels and continuing to invest in its existing estate. As part of its long-term programme to modernise its shop estate, Waitrose is refurbishing 28 shops this year, improving the in-store experience for customers across the country.
Notes to editors
For further information, please contact Ruth Roycroft: [email protected] or 07792 591035
Waitrose Cricklewood - 194-196 Cricklewood Broadway, London, NW2 3BN
Newly developed, the 18,000 sq ft shop is minutes away from Cricklewood train station. It is due to open as a Waitrose supermarket in autumn 2026.
Waitrose Hale Barns - The Square, Hale Road, Hale Barns, Altrincham, WA15 8ST
Currently operating as an Asda supermarket, the shop will undergo a full refit and is due to reopen as a 15,000 sq ft Waitrose supermarket in autumn 2026.
About Waitrose
Waitrose is the Home of Food Lovers, serving customers with exceptional quality products and expert service.
Part of the John Lewis Partnership - the UK’s largest employee-owned business - Waitrose has 320 shops and a strong online business. It also has agreements with brands like Welcome Break and Shell, further bolstering its local footprint.
It works closely with British farmers and suppliers, and is a market-leader for animal welfare and responsible sourcing - using sustainable farming methods, including on its very own farm, the Leckford Estate.
Waitrose has 800 specialist counters across its shops. It holds a Royal Warrant as Grocer and Wine & Spirits Merchant to His Majesty King Charles III.
