Tesco Unveils Major Convenience Store Expansion Strategy
Tesco, the UK's leading supermarket giant, has announced ambitious plans to significantly grow its convenience store network. The retailer confirmed it will open 70 new Tesco Express sites by March of next year, marking a substantial increase in its physical footprint. This expansion follows the successful launch of 60 Express stores throughout 2025, demonstrating a clear strategic focus on the convenience sector.
Acquisition of Former Amazon Fresh Locations
A notable aspect of this expansion involves the acquisition of five former Amazon Fresh stores in London. Tesco has purchased sites on Kensington High Street, in Hounslow, Moorgate, Aldgate East, and Wembley. All five locations are scheduled to be converted and reopened as fully operational Tesco Express stores before the summer season begins.
This move comes after Amazon's decision in September last year to close all 19 of its remaining Amazon Fresh physical shops. The US technology conglomerate shifted its operational focus back towards its core online business. At the time of the closures, Amazon indicated plans to convert five of the sites into Whole Foods Market stores, but Tesco has now secured these key locations for its own network.
Nationwide Growth Across the UK and Ireland
Tesco's expansion is not limited to London. The company has identified new locations across the United Kingdom and Ireland, including areas in Bickington, Devon; Pontrhydyrun, Wales; Strabane, Northern Ireland; and Wallyford in Scotland. This nationwide rollout underscores Tesco's commitment to serving diverse communities.
Furthermore, Tesco is planning to open two larger format stores in Scotland this year, specifically in Pitlochry and Heartlands. This follows the recent launch of two superstores at the end of last year in Ripon and Harrogate, located in North Yorkshire.
Strategic Focus on Convenience Retailing
Nick Johnson, Tesco's Group Property Director, commented on the expansion, stating, "As we grow our store network we're delighted to have the opportunity to serve even more people, in even more communities." This sentiment reflects the broader industry trend where supermarkets are aggressively expanding their convenience offerings.
The supermarket sector is actively pursuing further convenience store rollouts in response to changing consumer habits. Shoppers are increasingly making fewer large, weekly trips to big out-of-town supermarkets and opting instead for more frequent, smaller purchases from local, convenient stores. Tesco's expansion directly capitalizes on this behavioral shift.
With this new wave of openings, Tesco will reinforce its position in the convenience market, building upon its existing network of just over 2,000 Express stores across the UK and Ireland. The strategic acquisition of former Amazon Fresh sites also represents a significant competitive move in the evolving retail landscape.
