Convenience stores are one of just four categories currently experiencing a growth in shop numbers, with more than one store opening per week.

According to the latest data from PwC for the first half of 2024, there were 85 convenience store openings, while value retailers opened 39 new stores.

PwC said this comes as several major grocery chains have prioritised the opening of convenience sites over full-sized supermarkets.

In February, Asda unveiled plans to open a record 110 Express stores, as it looked to strengthen its network across the UK. Alongside one organic launch, 109 of the new stores were converted former Co-op and EG Group sites.

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Morrisons also rolled out plans to open 400 more of its Morrisons Daily convenience stores, with a wider goal of hitting 2,000 smaller stores in 2025.

In July, M&S unveiled plans to open 10 new convenience stores this year while renewing up to 50 as it aims to further grow its £1bn convenience business, while Waitrose is to open up to 100 new convenience shops over the next five years as part of a £1bn investment.

PwC leader of industry for consumer markets Lisa Hooker said: “Spaces need to adapt to the hybrid world and satisfy consumer trends for convenience, variety and fun, creating spaces that fill an immediate need or feel exciting for consumers to step into.”

It comes as convenience retailers spent a combined £1bn, up from £646m in the previous 12 months, on refitting stores, installing new energy efficient refrigeration and lighting, and detecting and preventing crime.