Matalan will open four new stores this month as the retailer continues investing in its store estate ahead of the peak Black Friday and Christmas trading period.

The fashion retailer will open new stores in Aylesbury, Clacton-on-Sea, Bangor and Newport, adding almost 100,000 square feet of retail space and creating around 40 jobs at each location.

Matalan said the openings form part of a wider programme to modernise its stores and improve the in-store shopping experience. The retailer highlighted the success of its Derby store, which opened earlier this year in its latest store format and reached £1 million in sales within 51 days.

The company opened a 30,000 square foot store at Brooke Retail Park in Clacton-on-Sea and a 22,000 square foot store at Aylesbury Shopping Park on 7 November.

It will open a 17,000 square foot store at Springhill in Bangor on 14 November, while a new 27,000 square foot full-price store at Mendalgief Retail Park in Newport will replace a nearby clearance outlet.

The new stores feature brighter interiors, revised layouts and updated visual merchandising designed to make products easier to find. Matalan said the format also aims to showcase its latest fashion and homeware ranges more effectively.

The retailer will also reopen its Hull store later this month following a refurbishment that includes a redesigned two-floor layout, upgraded lighting and signage, refreshed fitting rooms and new checkout areas.

James Dorling, property director at Matalan, said the stores play a huge role in how customers experience Matala, adding that they should reflect the improvements the firm is making to its product and brand.

"That's been the focus of our investment over the past two years, not just making stores look better, but making them easier to shop and better at showcasing what we have to offer. It's about investing in the right locations, improving the shopping environment, and giving our customers even more reasons to choose Matalan," he added.

"The response to the changes we've made has been really positive, with Derby a particular highlight. The four openings this November mark another important milestone in our investment programme, and we're delighted to be bringing the latest Matalan experience to more communities in time for Christmas."

The investment forms part of Matalan's wider transformation programme, which includes updates to its product range, digital offering and brand positioning. The retailer launched its "Believe It's Matalan" brand platform earlier this year as part of those efforts.

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