Somerfield to let Peacocks space in five-shop trial

Somerfield is to let space in stores to fashion retailer Peacocks.

John von Spreckelsen, Somerfield executive chairman, said the grocer will pilot the arrangement in five shops. The first test, at Weymouth, Dorset, begins next month.

Somerfield has completed a review that found its ideal average store size is approximately 6,000 sq ft (560 sq m). The grocer plans to downsize approximately 50 shops and let the free space to other retailers. At the same time, the grocer will refurbish 100 Somerfield and 100 Kwik Save stores this financial year.

Somerfield posted group preliminary operating profit of£30.1 million, compared with£28.1 million last year, on sales of£5 billion.