More than 50 eager shoppers queued outside the new B&M store in Southend today, as the popular discount retailer officially opened its doors in The Victoria Shopping Centre.
The store has taken over the former Wilko unit, bringing new life to the shopping centre following Wilko’s closure last year. This is the second B&M store in Southend-on-Sea, with another branch already established at the Airport Retail Park.
A spokesperson for The Victoria Shopping Centre said: “It was really good to see so many people come in early for the opening of our B&M store!”
What other big brands would you like to see come to Southend? Let us know in the comments below this article!
A boost for Southend’s retail scene
The arrival of B&M is said to be another positive step towards revitalising The Victoria Shopping Centre and Southend High Street, which has seen several major store closures in recent years. Southend City Council believes the new store will help reinforce the city’s status as a key shopping destination, attracting more visitors to the area.
A B&M spokesperson expressed their enthusiasm for the opening, saying: “We’re feeling extremely positive about the creation of more jobs for local people, and we hope customers are going to be delighted with their new store. We are all really excited to get the doors open and welcome new customers through the door.”
Shoppers react to the opening
Locals have shared their excitement about the new addition to Southend’s retail scene.
Amy Spiers commented: “Great!! Won’t have to fight to get in airport shops now!”
Chris Holmes added: “We need more pound shops and vape shops. Not enough of them yet!”
Naome Rolfe, who now lives in Australia but often visits her hometown, was thrilled: “Fantastic! I’ll be going when I visit Southend – I love a shop when I’m in town.”
What to expect at the new B&M
The discount retailer is well known for its wide range of affordable products, from everyday essentials to those unexpected bargains you didn’t realise you needed. Customers can browse departments including homeware, electricals, toys, games, gifts, health & beauty, cleaning, DIY, garden supplies, and seasonal products.
How to get there
Located in The Victoria Shopping Centre, the store is easy to find at the junction of the A13 and A127. The shopping centre’s car park is signposted from Queensway, and for those using public transport, The Victoria is situated on a key bus hub adjacent to Southend Victoria railway station.
Opening times
The new B&M store is open seven days a week:
- Monday to Saturday: 9.00am – 8.00pm
- Sunday: 10.00am – 4.00pm
With the store now open, Southend shoppers can look forward to great bargains and a fresh boost to the local high street.
I agree we need more vape shops and pound shops. But also need some phone case shops. Need some cases!