The Range to take on former Focus store in Torquay

CITY retail tycoon Chris Dawson is to open a new branch of his The Range empire in Torquay, he has announced.

The bargain store group, run by Plymouth-based billionaire Mr Dawson, will create around 100 new jobs in the Devon town, it says.

The news comes just days after The Herald revealed a major expansion plan for The Range store in Billacombe Road, Plymstock.

The revamped store would gain an extra two storeys and a cafe overlooking the River Plym under plans submitted to Plymouth City Council.

Homebase told The Herald last week that The Range was also taking over the lease of the ailing homeware retailer's Peverell store, which is closing next month, in Montpelier Road, Peverell.

However, the chain said in a later statement that it had announced The Range's involvement in error.

The new store in Torquay will be on the site of the town's former Focus store in Babbacombe.

Supermarket chain Morrisons had earmarked it for a store, but its plans were turned down on appeal.

The Range said Torquay was a key addition to the growth of the company and was part of the huge expansion plans it has.

A spokesman said the UK retail market had been through some big changes in recent years but The Range was bucking the trend with bringing thousands of new jobs into the much needed retail sector of the UK economy.

The new store in Torquay will create around 100 part-time and full-time jobs, from store and department managers to warehouse and admin staff as well as opportunities to develop skills and grow with the company.

When the store opens the group says there will be plenty of exclusive store opening offers along with entertainment in the form of competitions, giveaways and of course our own mascot Captain Range will be there entertaining the children and handing out balloons.

Mr Dawson said: “The continued success of The Range is down to the staff we employ, we are very pleased to be creating a number of jobs in the area and look forward to inviting potential employees to join the team.

"I would like to thank the council for welcoming us and being so supportive.

"We feel that The Range is a unique shopping experience that has something for everyone and we are confident that the people of Torquay will enjoy what The Range has to offer.”

Source : Plymouth Herald
www.plymouthherald.co.uk/Plymouth-billionaire-Chris-Dawson-announces-new/story-22761151-detail/story.html