Heron Foods

Name:  Jonathan Laverack

Role: Property Director at Heron Foods

Who are Heron Foods?

We are a discount food retailer based in Hull but trading across England and Wales.

How many locations do Heron Foods currently have?

We currently have in excess of 320 stores

Target locations?

We’re primarily looking for stores in regional centres, neighbourhood parades and residential estate locations but we will look at any opportunity on merit.

How many new locations are you targeting?

20 stores per year, although we have the capacity to do more.

Size requirements?

Ideally 3,000 - 5,000sq ft but anything between 2,000 sq ft sales up to 7,000 sq ft

Additional requirements?

We would want to be close to other retail, schools and bus stops. We prefer parking but it’s not essential

Planning consent? 

Class E

Freehold or Leasehold?

We will consider both

Do you pay introductory fees?

Yes

Recent openings or new locations in the pipeline? 

Our last three store openings have been:

-      Ribbleton, Preston

-      Bedminster, Bristol

-      Houghton Regis

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Additional Questions:

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What are the main challenges you face when acquiring new property?

A lack of suitable opportunities, post COVID the market has been very slow to pickup.  The planning system is also incredibly slow at the moment.

Favourite occupier and why?

Heron Foods of course!

What is your favourite building?

St Vincent Arms Pub near York

Favourite retail or leisure destination?

York

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