WORK has begun on converting three shops into Sainsbury’s stores in Cowes, Sandown and Freshwater.
After buying the Somerfield store in Cowes from the Co-op and the Freshwater Co-op in School Green Road in early March, Sainsbury’s is putting in three local stores.
The Sainsbury’s Local in Freshwater is expected to open in late May and the Cowes one in early June.
Former staff will be offered employment with Sainsbury’s and undergo training during the closure period in preparation for re-opening.
Sainsbury’s head of acquisitions Dale Abbott said: “We look forward to welcoming our new colleagues. Their quality, skills and local experience will be of great benefit to Sainsbury’s.
“We expect the new stores to create jobs for the community and as soon as our plans are in place, we will confirm the number of positions and start recruitment.
“Playing an active part in local communities has ensured Sainsbury’s has been around for 140 years and throughout refurbishment, we will work with local representatives to ensure our contributions are positive.”
In Sandown, Sainsbury’s has also begun work to convert the former Woolworths store.
It is expected to re-open as a Sainsbury’s Local in mid July.
“We’re delighted to be opening a store in Sandown. It will provide new jobs and better shopping facilities for the local community,” said Mr Abbott.
Reporter: richardw@iwcpmail.co.uk