Tesco Extra Hypermarket, Swansea

Tesco’s enormous new offering in Llansamlet, in Swansea’s hinterland, delivers an oversized one-stop-shop experience with a difference: you won’t get lost.

With design from BLINK, the 80,000 square foot store is undeniably cavernous, but its massive footprint is balanced by an effort to create a space that intuitively facilities multiple customer journeys and dials up customer-oriented convenience.

With its warm wooden tones, natural lighting and emphasis on fresh, bright product, the vibe is continental hypermarket.

BLINK has created a hypermarket space that seamlessly blends omnichannel perspectives with traditional grocery retail.

A large fresh market centre is surrounded by departments such as clothing and a pharmacy. These are positioned at the periphery to allow easy and convenient access. Low-lying wooden gondolas improve visibility and product accessibility, while also highlighting the freshness of the product on offer. This is further highlighted through food theatre, with staff in the bakery and deli departments working in open preparation areas.

Welcoming signage introduces staff members and invites customers to engage with them, while large digital screens and cheerful special offers draw the eye while also helping to create different tempos and experiences throughout the store. Bilingual text introduces each department area, and localised foodie-themed messaging create a hospitable vibe.

Omni-channel offerings such as click-and-collect, mobile product self-scan and hot food takeaway offerings deliver seamless convenience, while a free cafe and community area creates a contemporary space tailored to local consumers. It’s a space that’s simple and enjoyable to navigate.