In a bold move to enhance its presence in the convenience retail sector, Tesco has unveiled plans to open 70 new Express stores by March 2027. This expansion follows a successful year in which the supermarket chain launched 60 Express locations in 2025. Notably, the new stores will include five former Amazon Fresh sites in key London areas, underlining Tesco’s strategy to capitalise on shifting consumer shopping habits.
New Store Locations and Expansion Plans
Among the highlighted locations for Tesco’s new Express outlets are Kensington High Street, Hounslow, Moorgate, Aldgate East, and Wembley. These sites, previously occupied by Amazon Fresh, are expected to welcome customers before the summer, following Amazon’s decision last September to close all 19 of its Fresh stores in the UK to refocus on its online operations.
In addition to the London openings, Tesco plans to establish new Express stores in Bickington, Devon; Pontrhydyrun, Wales; Strabane, Northern Ireland; and Wallyford in Scotland. The company is also set to launch two larger stores in Scotland this year, located in Pitlochry and Heartlands, complementing its recent openings in Ripon and Harrogate, North Yorkshire.
Shifting Consumer Trends
Nick Johnson, Tesco’s group property director, expressed excitement about 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 expansion is strategically aligned with a growing trend among consumers who increasingly prefer making smaller, more frequent purchases rather than undertaking large shopping trips.
The convenience store sector has witnessed a significant uptick as shoppers seek greater accessibility to essential goods. Tesco’s move to enhance its Express network comes at a time when the supermarket has recently regained its position as the UK’s cheapest supermarket for a ‘big shop,’ surpassing Asda with an average cost of £588.96, aided by its Clubcard discount programme.
Competitive Landscape
This expansion illustrates Tesco’s commitment to adapting to the evolving retail landscape, where convenience is becoming paramount. As more consumers gravitate towards local shopping options, Tesco’s strategic openings not only aim to meet this demand but also to reinforce its foothold in the competitive supermarket arena.
The recent closure of Amazon Fresh locations opens the door for Tesco to capture a segment of the market eager for convenience and accessibility. With over 2,000 Express stores already in operation across the UK and Ireland, Tesco is well-positioned to leverage its established infrastructure and customer loyalty.
Why it Matters
Tesco’s aggressive expansion into the convenience sector is a clear response to changing consumer behaviours and competitive pressures in the retail landscape. By converting former Amazon Fresh sites and launching new stores in strategic locations, Tesco is not just increasing its market share but also reinforcing the importance of local shopping hubs in the community. As the supermarket navigates this shift, its ability to provide value and convenience will be crucial in maintaining customer loyalty and driving future growth in an increasingly competitive market.
