DISCOUNT goods store Boyes will move into the premises formerly occupied by Grantham’s branch of Marks & Spencer, creating 30 jobs.
The large premises, in High Street, has stood empty since M&S moved out in early 2011.
It is hoped that Boyes, a family-run firm based in Scarborough, will open in time for Christmas, but this is dependent on the completion of works by the landlord.
Chairman and joint managing director Andrew Boyes told the Journal: “We’ve signed an agreement to lease so we’re committed to going into the property. It’s a question of timings rather than if.”
Once given the go-ahead, Boyes’ shopfitters will move in and create the standard store layout.
Mr Boyes said he is “delighted” to be moving into such a prominent High Street store, which will sell over 30,000 products that aim to be high quality at low cost.
Mr Boyes said: “We will offer something that’s a bit different for people in Grantham.
“We’ve had a few letters over the years from people saying we should open a store here. It gives you a bit of confidence that we’re different to anybody else.”
Councillor Frances Cartwright believes the new addition will “revitalise” the High Street.
The South Kesteven District Council portfolio holder for economic development said: “We are really pleased that Boyes have chosen to come to Grantham as this will provide much-needed jobs for local people and revitalise a large section of the High Street and we wish them every success.
“Grantham is ideally located for businesses with both the A1 and the East Coast Mainline and SKDC are working hard to promote the town and to encourage economic regeneration.”
Boyes remains family-owned, having been launched in Scarborough in 1881 by Mr Boyes’ great-grandfather. The Grantham store will be the firm’s 44th store.
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