John Lewis has opened its first store in York today with a 92,000 sq ft ‘flexible format’ shop which features a Hotel Chocolat Cocoa Bean café.

Located at Vangarde Shopping Park, the York store marks John Lewis’ 41st shop and coincides with the retailer’s 150th anniversary this year. 

John Lewis’ flexible format is smaller than its usual department stores, which cover 130,000 sq ft on average, and is designed to allow the retailer to more easily expand across the UK. York is the second flexible format for John Lewis following the opening of Exeter in October 2012.

The York store carries home, fashion and electricals products and features a range of services such as personal styling and the opportunity to set up a gift list.

Customers will be able to browse and purchase products from computer terminals in the store and have them delivered the next day.

Andy Street, managing director of John Lewis, said: “York has long been a sought after location for us and we’re delighted to be able to expand our reach to customers across the Yorkshire region, providing them with more convenient access to our inspiring products and great service. We’re looking forward to becoming part of the local community here in York.” 

Robert Garnish, branch manager of John Lewis York, said: “The new shop is perfectly placed to meet customers’ needs in the York area, with a wide range of products and services on offer and two premium eateries. We’ve now employed 300 people for the shop, and I can’t wait to get to know each of them as well as all of our new customers.”

Marks & Spencer also opens a new store in York at Vangarde Shopping Park today. The retailer said the 100,000 sq ft store is one of its biggest in the region. The store will include a beauty department, a cafe and a food hall.