Superdrug has announced it will open 25 new stores this year.

Additionally, the health and beauty retailer will expand seven stores and refit 60 more.

Superdrug said the move will create around 500 jobs across the UK.

The new stores will be some of the “biggest ever” in its history, with the retailer celebrating its 60th year of operation in 2024.

The refitted stores will be modernised under Superdrug’s sustainable store scheme. The revamped locations will have new shop fronts, recyclable signage, energy efficient lighting and improved flooring and ceiling tiles made from sustainable materials such as mineral wool.

The investment is part of Superdrug’s focus on its online and offline platform strategy to meet its omnichannel targets.

Under its brick-and-mortar strategy, the supermarket has already doubled the footprint of its Craigavon store in Northern Ireland this year to 5,800 sq ft. Additionally, it has extended its Lakeside Thurrock store to 7,669 sq ft, adding a new fragrance counter and nurse services.

Superdrug’s property director, Nigel Duxbury, said that the larger retail units allow the retailer to offer more services to customers.

“We’ve changed a lot in the 60 years since the first Superdrug store opened in Putney high-street, but we remain as committed as ever to providing a seamless shopping experience for our customers, offering the very best in accessible health and beauty,” he added. “This investment into bricks-and-mortar means we can grow our footprint in key locations and highlights our ongoing commitment to High Streets and retail shopping destinations, which are an integral part of local communities and economy.”

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