Hundreds of keen shoppers queued today to be the first through the doors of Nantwich’s new Marks & Spencer store.
The Simply Food outlet on Beam Street was unveiled by store manager Michelle McMurray in front of a large crowd.
Michelle said: “It’s great to finally welcome customers into the new store and show them what we have been working on for the past few months.
“The new store brings the quality and freshness of M&S food to shoppers in Nantwich. We look forward to welcoming customers into the store over the weeks and months to come.”
Onlooker Jonathan White said more than 100 people attended the ribbon cut.
“It was a slick affair,” he said.
“The M&S banner was unfurled and held taught, then the emergence from the store filled champagne glasses in hand of the manager and staff.
“There was a pre-recorded countdown to the big event of the ribbon cut, followed by an encouragement of cheers to staff from the photographers.
“I guess there were around 100 people in the queue for the 10am opening, so I’m sure their tills will be busy!”
The store, which has created 60 new jobs in the town, is 9,000 sq ft with more than 4,500 food and drink lines, hosiery, cards and beauty products.
It also includes a 50-seat M&S café and in-store bakery.
Another nail in the coffin for local business