Sainsbury’s is accelerating its store expansion plans with a clear focus on capitalising on what it describes as “prime locations” for growth. According to Patrick Dunne, the supermarket’s chief property and procurement director, the company currently has more than 100 such sites under consideration for future new store openings. This strategic push reflects Sainsbury’s broader ambition to increase its physical footprint across the UK and enhance convenience for local communities.

One of the recent milestones in this expansion effort is the opening of a flagship store in the Silkstream development in West Hendon, London. Unveiled in November 2024, the 43,000 square foot store forms part of a significant regeneration project led by St George, a subsidiary of the Berkeley Group. The development is designed to foster a low-carbon, nature-rich neighbourhood featuring 1,300 new homes. This store notably includes an ultra-rapid electric vehicle (EV) charging service, branded Smart Charge, which boasts undercover parking for 250 vehicles and ten dedicated charging bays. Dunne expressed particular enthusiasm about the project, highlighting its community benefits and the integration of sustainable technologies.

The company’s expansion strategy also covers other regions; for example, Sainsbury’s recently confirmed plans to open a new store at Wynyard Business Park in Stockton-on-Tees. This development forms part of a 52,000 square foot retail space accompanied by a 45,000 square foot trade park, aiming to support the Tees Valley’s Strategic Economic Plan and Local Industrial Strategy. Scheduled for operational status by May 2025, the project is expected to contribute to local economic growth and job creation, reinforcing Sainsbury’s role as a regional investor.

However, not all expansion attempts have faced smooth progress. Plans for a new Sainsbury’s supermarket in Southwell were recommended for refusal by Newark and Sherwood District Council, a decision that disappointed the retailer. Dunne criticised the refusal, contending that local residents could lose out on access to a modern, well-equipped store that would deliver significant community benefits.

Sainsbury’s ongoing development portfolio sheds light on the company’s commitment to revitalising local areas and creating employment opportunities. For instance, construction has begun on an 18,000 square foot store in Staplehurst, Kent, anticipated to open in spring 2021 and provide over 100 jobs. This store will offer a broad range of products, including fresh and hot food counters, while integrating an Argos concession, demonstrating the company’s multi-brand retail approach.

In Berkshire, further expansion is planned with a 16,000 square foot superstore in Arborfield. This new site will feature a Click & Collect service catering to orders from Sainsbury’s, Argos, Habitat, and Tu Clothing, and is expected to generate 75 new jobs. Dunne emphasized the strategic importance of these investments in enhancing local shopping choices and supporting workforce growth.

Sainsbury’s property strategy, procurement management, and innovative retail initiatives such as the Smart Charge EV programme all come under the stewardship of Patrick Dunne, whose leadership is central to the company’s growth trajectory. His role involves not only expanding the store network but also delivering customer-focused innovations that meet evolving market demands and sustainability considerations.

Overall, Sainsbury’s expansion plans reflect a multifaceted approach combining new store openings in promising locations, community engagement, sustainable technologies, and regional economic support. While some local planning challenges remain, the company’s direction under Dunne’s guidance points to sustained growth and adaptation within the competitive UK retail landscape.