Horsham newsagent announces expansion plans

Shelley’s News in Coltsfoot Drive is set to become a new convenience store as it takes over a retail unit next door to the current shop.

The newsagent will be merging with the Spar store to create a brand new Budgens which is planned to open later this year.

Chris Shelley, manger at Shelley’s News, explained the falling interest in newsagents had led to the decision to expand the business.

He said: “It has been four years in the planning and has been a long process but it’s an exciting project.

“People are much more comfortable these days to pick up their shopping from a local convenience store.”

The new expansion will still include the Post Office services which the newsagents currently offers.

Chris said the project would benefit the Post Office with it being able to offer more services including an out of hours service.

He continued: “One of the other things we want to focus on in the new store is using products from local people in the area.

“There is going to be a lot of work and investment but we are really confident it is going to be a fantastic store.”

The Spar store is due to close on Saturday September 19 with building work starting at the beginning of October.

Part of the newsagent will be closed whilst the work takes place however, Chris said the store will still be offering basics such as bread, milk and the Post Office services.

He added he hoped it would be re-open in time for Christmas trade.