Waitrose is to open its first shop in Croydon after acquiring 13 Somerfield stores from the Co-operative.

The retailer is planning to create a number of new jobs when it re-launches the 10,161 sq ft Somerfield store in George Street by the end of May this year.

All Somerfield employees will be offered the opportunity to join Waitrose as a Partner within the John Lewis Partnership, which means they become co-owners of the business and receive an annual share in profits.

Waitrose announced today that it has entered into a conditional agreement with The Co-operative Group to purchase 13 stores.

Mark Price, Waitrose managing director, said: “We’re delighted to be coming to Croydon as part of the biggest period of growth in the history of Waitrose.

“I’ve been overwhelmed by the number of letters I’ve received asking for a Waitrose in Croydon, demonstrating there is a strong demand for quality food in the area.

“We are delighted to be creating a number of new jobs in the area and look forward to welcoming those from Somerfield to share in the unique benefits of the John Lewis Partnership.”