The first of 30 new Eddy’s Food Station convenience stores opens today, creating 14 new jobs in Alloa, with a further 500 roles across central Scotland promised over the next five years.
The Clackmannanshire site is the first flagship of the newest venture from Stephen Thompson, former chief executive and co-founder of Morning, Noon & Night.
That convenience store chain of 50 stores was sold for £30m in 2004, with the launch of Eddy’s Food Station marking a return to retail, following his role as chairman of Dundee United FC from 2008 to 2018.
Thompson said: “We’re investing heavily in resources and research into our offering and services at each Eddy’s Food Station.
“The name is a nod to my father and his successes in the industry - I’m thrilled to be following in his footsteps with this new venture and look forward to embracing the journey ahead as the network grows.
“We will continue to scope out further sites for future stores in more central and convenient locations.”
John Richardson, head of food service at Eddy’s, said: “In addition to a wide range of groceries our point of difference will be a high-quality, Scottish, daily takeaway menu of hot and cold fresh foods, from filled rolls, to hot pizza slices, there are options for every meal.”
Partnering with a number of Scottish food wholesalers, Eddy’s is aiming to provide customers with products tailored to the Scottish market.
Dr. John Lee, head of public affairs at Scottish Grocers’ Federation, added: “The development of a new group of convenience stores is an indication of how strong the convenience sector is and how popular the convenience channel is with customers.
“This is a very impressive level of investment which will create significant new jobs and provide valuable services to our communities.”
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