John Lewis today announced that it is to trial a new food concept at its Watford department store.
The £2m investment will convert 5,500sq ft of back-of-house space on the second floor into a 'Little Waitrose at John Lewis' shop. It will look like Waitrose, with the same products, but will be run by John Lewis Partners for the John Lewis customer.
John Lewis says shoppers will be able to top up on food for the week, shop for dinner or pick up a quick snack, with an offer covering core groceries, ready meals, fresh pasta, soups and breads, ranges of prepared meat, fish and vegetables, and alcoholic drinks.
John Lewis managing director Andy Street said the initiative was "a great example of the John Lewis and Waitrose brands working together to provide powerful and compelling destinations for our customers to visit".
The mini store, which will create 30 new jobs, is due to open in June.