OneBeyond, a Barnsley-headquartered discount variety store chain, is targeting growth from 120 to 200 stores within 18 months, with its workforce expected to increase from 1,650 to more than 3,000.<\/p>\n
The family-owned retailer said it is poised to accelerate its growth and is currently in discussions with embattled Poundland regarding a number of viable sites.<\/p>\n
The ambition would increase OneBeyond\u2019s estate by two-thirds, bringing its 5,000 strong product range of everyday essentials, homeware, toys and seasonal products to more communities.<\/p>\n
Chris Edwards Jnr, owner and chief executive, said: \u201cWe have the experience, ambition and ability to act quickly. Our goal is to take OneBeyond to 200 stores within 18 months, and should the right opportunities become available, we are ready to move.<\/p>\n
\u201cOneBeyond is growing rapidly, driven by increasing demand for our unique value proposition and excellent shopping experience.<\/p>\n
“Customers expect exceptional value, an ever-changing product range and a compelling reason to return, we are delivering on all three.<\/p>\n
“We see significant opportunities to expand our presence across the UK, bringing OneBeyond to more towns and cities, creating new jobs and growing our workforce to over 3,000 people.\u201d<\/p>\n
Edwards also acknowledged the uncertainty facing Poundland\u2019s employees and the communities its stores serve.<\/p>\n
\u201cHaving spent my career in discount retail, I know how much these businesses matter to their colleagues and customers. This is an unsettling time for the people involved.<\/p>\n
\u201cIf a rescue of Poundland as a whole cannot be secured, established retailers such as OneBeyond can play an important role in providing a future for suitable stores and employment opportunities for affected colleagues.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe are already engaging with the relevant parties about suitable store opportunities and are ready to act quickly.<\/p>\n
“As a UK based family-owned retailer, our ambition is to invest in these locations for the long term, keeping affordable shopping at the heart of local communities.\u201d<\/p>\n
The retailer has said any store openings would be subject to availability, commercial terms and each location meeting its requirements.<\/p>\n
It is now inviting landlords and property agents with suitable locations to come forward.<\/p>\n