Retail giant tight lipped on Welshpool link

A major retailer looks set to open in Welshpool, reversing the trend of recent high street closures to provide the town with a timely show of confidence.

The Original Factory Shop is said to be sizing up the former Sainsbury’s building in the town centre, and is advertising for an ambitious Store Manager to create a “friendly, welcoming, customer focused environment that delivers great results and a great place to work”.

The £25,000-a-year post appeared this week, but the retailer, which sources “quality ranges at unbelievable prices” is keeping its cards close to its chest.

“We have not confirmed any plans at this stage,” a spokesperson from The Original Factory Shop told us this morning.

The Original Factory Shop was established in 1969 as part of Peter Black’s retail network. Initially it sold soap manufactured by one of Mr Black’s factories.

Last year, the Burnley-based retailer that said it was launching an ambitious plan to open 50 new stores across the UK to add to its chain of 166 currently operating.

The shop claims to provide its customers with “big brands at up to 70% off across multiple departments including fashion, beauty, home and more”.

Sainsbury’s called it a day in Welshpool during the pandemic, leaving a huge building empty. It started a domino effect with WH Smith, HSBC and only last week Savers also falling.

On Tuesday evening, the Town Council will be meeting local businesses to share its vision for the town and to listen to ideas that can help to regenerate the town centre.