Discount retailer B&M has opened its new store in Burnham-On-Sea this morning (Thursday).
The premises in Pier Street, which replaces the former Morrisons supermarket that closed last November, has created more than 60 new jobs.
Burnham’s Mayor formally opened the new store at 9am with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, attended by staff members and the RNLI which it is supporting.
Amid concern that the store will impact existing shops, the Chamber of Trade held further talks with B&M management and secured a commitment that the store will offer copies of Burnham’s shopping guide brochure to promote the town centre’s shops – and also discuss other joint funding opportunities.
A B&M spokesman said: “Customers will find a wide variety of branded and own label products including toys, food & drink, pet products and health & beauty.”
“We’re feeling really positive about the creation of new jobs for local people and we hope customers are going to be delighted with their new store.”
Burnham’s Mayor, Cllr Michael Clarke, said at this morning’s opening: “I’m pleased to see it open and a relieved that something is being done with this vacant site with over 60 jobs created.”
However, many existing shops in Burnham-On-Sea’s town centre are concerned that B&M’s opening may adversely hit their business.
Burnham’s Chamber of Trade this week urged shoppers to continue supporting the town centre alongside B&M. “Our small shops are the lifeblood of our town centre and we encourage shoppers to continue to support them,” said a spokesman.
B&M claims that its stores actually boost footfall in the surrounding area. The new store is fundraising for the RNLI on its opening day.
Also see:
Reaction to B&M’s decision to take over Burnham’s Morrisons store
Confirmed – Discount store B&M takes over Burnham Morrisons site
Businesses in Burnham-On-Sea discuss future of former Morrisons site
Video: Mayor thanks staff at Burnham’s Morrisons store as it shuts
Council ‘confident’ that Burnham Morrisons store won’t be empty long
Burnham’s MP meets campaigners battling to save Morrisons store
Burnham Morrisons staff told store will shut at the end of November
Protest held over Burnham Morrisons closure at council debate
Morrisons to close its Burnham-On-Sea store
