Pure Beauty

Superdrug ramps up bricks-and-mortar strategy with 25 new store openings this year

By Amanda Pauley | Published: 19-Apr-2023

New “enhanced” stores will open in Dublin, Manchester and London, while 70 existing shops will be refitted to make them more eco-friendly

Superdrug is set to open 25 new UK stores in 2023 as it continues to expand its bricks-and-mortar retail footprint.

New “bigger and better stores” are launching in Dublin’s Dundrum, Manchester’s Trafford Centre and London’s Brent Cross shopping centre, with more locations to be announced. 

The health and beauty retailer said the new stores will offer an “enhanced” physical shopping experience, including beauty treatments and healthcare services via its pharmacies and nurse clinics.

The venture is expected to create more than 570 jobs nationwide. 

“Recent years have seen seismic changes in our sector, and constantly evolving customer expectations,” said Superdrug CEO Peter Macnab.

“An investment of this scale demonstrates our resilience in the face of continuing social and economic challenges, but also our confidence and commitment to our customers and communities.”

Superdrug is planning to refit 70 existing stores this year as well, which will include new shop fronts, fully recyclable signage, and improved flooring and ceiling tiles made from bio-soluble mineral wool, clay and starch. 

Energy efficient LED lighting, new floor layouts and upgraded internal signage will also be fitted. 

The move is part of the company’s Sustainable Store Scheme to make existing stores as eco-conscious as possible, from design and energy saving to waste management.

The health and beauty retailer’s planned investment in its UK stores is part of the brand’s new O+O (Online + Offline) platform strategy based on strong performance figures.

The company reported increased volume, value sales and footfall across both sides of the business in the fourth quarter of 2022.

Its 2021 revenue also rose 5.1% to £1.168bn, with a profit before tax increase of 141.3%.

Superdrug’s Property Director, Nigel Duxbury, commented: “High streets and retail parks are the beating heart of our communities and an essential part of our economy. 

“Our investment in bricks-and-mortar will help us continue to stretch, shape and deliver for our customers in the future.

“As well as helping transform communities into vibrant places to live, work and shop.”

Superdrug is not the only retailer investing heavily in new stores to reinvigorate the UK high street.

The Fragrance Shop is opening its first-ever “experiential” flagship store in London’s Oxford Street this summer. 

This is part of the independent fragrance retailer’s plans to open 100 new stores in the UK and Ireland over the next three years.

British brand Lush is also investing up to £7.6m into opening new stores and updating its current retail offering across the UK and Ireland. 

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