Tesco Announces Major UK Expansion with 70 New Stores
In a significant development for the UK retail sector, supermarket giant Tesco has revealed ambitious plans to open more than 70 new stores across the country. This expansion follows the company's strategic acquisition of several Amazon Fresh locations, marking a notable shift in the competitive grocery landscape.
Strategic Growth Through Acquisition
The Welwyn Garden City-based retailer confirmed it will launch these new convenience shops by March next year, building upon the 60 Tesco Express stores already opened throughout 2025. This move represents a substantial investment in physical retail infrastructure at a time when many competitors are scaling back their high street presence.
Nick Johnson, Tesco Group Property Director, emphasised the company's commitment to local communities, stating: "As one of the UK's leading retailers, we support jobs and local economies up and down the UK, and as we grow our store network we're delighted to have the opportunity to serve even more people, in even more communities."
Converting Former Amazon Fresh Locations
Among the new openings will be five former Amazon Fresh stores purchased by Tesco across London. These locations include:
- Kensington High Street
- Hounslow
- Moorgate
- Aldgate East
- Wembley
All five sites are scheduled to reopen as Tesco Express stores before the summer, providing continued convenience shopping options in these areas. This development follows Amazon's announcement last September that it would close all its remaining Amazon Fresh physical shops, shifting focus back toward its online operations.
Nationwide Expansion Programme
The expansion extends far beyond London, with new locations planned across all four nations of the United Kingdom. Additional confirmed sites include:
- Bickington in Devon
- Pontrhydyrun in Wales
- Strabane in Northern Ireland
- Wallyford in Scotland
This nationwide rollout will significantly enhance Tesco's existing network of just over 2,000 Express stores throughout the UK and Ireland, strengthening its position as the country's largest grocer.
Commitment to Customer Service and Value
Mr Johnson further elaborated on Tesco's strategic vision, adding: "We are hugely excited about the year ahead and looking forward to meeting our customers where they are with great quality, exceptional value and brilliant customer service."
The expansion reflects Tesco's confidence in the future of physical retail alongside its digital offerings, ensuring customers across diverse communities have access to convenient shopping options. With stores ranging from city centre Express locations to larger superstores in suburban areas, Tesco continues to adapt its format mix to meet evolving consumer needs.
This substantial investment in new store openings represents one of the most significant physical retail expansions announced in recent years, potentially creating numerous employment opportunities and contributing to local economies across the United Kingdom.
