B&M, one of the UK’s most popular discount retailers, is preparing for the grand opening of its brand-new store at The Victoria Shopping Centre in Southend.
Taking over the former Wilko unit, the 27,109 square foot store is undergoing a full-scale refurbishment inside and out. Once complete, it will offer a fresh new shopping experience for local residents and visitors alike.
The store will officially open on on Saturday 15 March 2025, opening its doors at 8am.
A boost for Southend High Street
The arrival of B&M is a major step forward in Southend City Council’s ongoing mission to revitalise The Victoria Centre and breathe new life into the city’s High Street. The store will not only enhance Southend’s retail landscape but will also bring a significant economic boost, creating 50 new local jobs.
Since the council acquired The Victoria Centre in 2020, efforts have been focused on transforming it into a thriving retail and community hub. Keeping key spaces occupied with major retailers like B&M is crucial to this goal, ensuring the centre remains a vibrant and attractive shopping destination.
With excellent transport links, including nearby train and bus services, plus ample parking, the new B&M store will be easily accessible for shoppers from across the region.
Stocking everything from homeware, food and pet supplies to toys, garden essentials and cleaning products, the store will provide a diverse and affordable shopping experience for Southend residents.
Excitement builds ahead of opening day
A B&M spokesperson shared the retailer’s enthusiasm for the new store:
“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.”
Council welcomes investment in Southend’s retail future
Councillor Paul Collins, Cabinet Member for Finance, Asset and Investments, hailed the arrival of B&M as a major win for Southend:
“The arrival of B&M is fantastic news for Southend, bringing new jobs, increased footfall, and supporting businesses in and around The Victoria Centre. Since taking ownership of the centre, we’ve been committed to keeping it a key part of Southend’s retail and community landscape, and B&M’s decision to invest here is a strong vote of confidence in the city.
“The Victoria Centre is central to our regeneration plans for the city centre. B&M’s opening, alongside initiatives like The Bridge, which offers dynamic entrepreneurs a six-month rent-free period, highlights the potential of this space and our commitment to creating a vibrant, modern High Street for residents and visitors alike.”
A growing shopping destination?
The Victoria Centre has already seen increased activity and engagement, most notably during Southend City Day, when it was bustling with local organisations and charities. The addition of B&M further strengthens the centre’s appeal, attracting more shoppers and boosting the local economy.
With just days to go until the grand opening, anticipation is building for what promises to be an exciting new chapter for The Victoria Centre and Southend High Street. Shoppers can mark their calendars for Saturday 15 March at 8am—B&M is ready to welcome them with unbeatable deals and a brand-new shopping experience.