The Range is set to take over a former Debenhams in Essex later this year to create one of the largest homeware stores in the UK’s southern region.

The discount store chain will be taking over the 80,000 square foot unit in Chelmsford High Street later this year, the firm previously confirmed.

Refit work has already started at the former Debenhams, the sixth The Range in Essex, in a multi-million pound investment which is set to be completed this summer.

It will house a dedicated loading bay and in store order and collection options as well as home delivery for customer convenience.

This move is expected to create hundreds of jobs from shop and department managers to warehouse workers and retail assistants.

The large store will sell a wide variety of products with sections including DIY, kitchen and dining, bathroom, technology, furniture and storage, pets, clothing and health and beauty, baby, kids and toys and more.

Alex Simpkin, CEO of The Range, said: "It’s been a busy year for The Range and we look to build on our already successful growth in the UK in 2023.

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"With the cost of living pressures and inflation starting to bite, we know that great products, that are high value, quality and affordable are of paramount importance right now.

"As a result, we have significantly increased the amount of price-sensitive products we offer under one roof; as well as the on and offline customer shopping experience."

He added: “This acquisition represents a huge investment and is a hugely important part of our expansion plans. Its high street location and car parking facility was a key factor in securing this unit to help accelerate our growth plans for the business.”