Waitrose has opened a new store at Chelmer Village Retail Park in Essex, as part of its UK-wide £1 billion investment programme.

The opening of the latest shop has created 39 jobs, with the new 7,000 sq ft site stocking a range of Waitrose’s 6500 products.

The retailer’s store features an a fully stocked bakery, curated range of drinks and a click and collect delivery service.

Additionally, the new location will donate £12,000 annually to support local charities through Waitrose’s Community Matters programme.

Richard Upton, Waitrose Chelmer Village branch manager, said: “We’ve wanted to expand Waitrose in Essex and bring our fantastic quality products to even more Food Lovers in the area. We are delighted by the excitement around the shop and I want to thank everyone for their patience while we transformed the site. It’s great to open our doors and become part of the community.

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“Launching a new store is a career highlight, and all the partners are ready and waiting to deliver the brilliant service we’re known for. We can’t wait to show everyone around their brand new Waitrose.”

The supermarket is offering its members a number of benefits, including personalised offers, free hot drinks and products.

This is part of the retailer’s expansion in Essex, with seven established Waitrose supermarkets and three Little Waitrose at Shell sites in the region.

The parent company of Waitrose, John Lewis Partnership, has further upgrades planned in Essex at the Southend-on-Sea and Upminster locations.