Nairn Welcomes New Sainsbury's Store

Sainsbury's landmark first store in the Highlands opened this week in Nairn.

The ribbon cutting ceremony was performed by local community leader, Jeanne Tolmie, chairman of the Nairn River Community Council, who helped lead the campaign for a new Sainsbury's in Nairn.

Hundreds of people were piped into the store after the ribbon cutting ceremony and new customers were treated to a  performance from a group of Highland dancers at the store which was opened earlier than expected.

The store has created over 170 new jobs and two-thirds of those recruited live locally in Nairn. The new store manager is Raymond Barton, an experienced member of staff who has moved from his position in charge of Sainsbury's Garthdee store in Aberdeen.

Sainsbury's proposals for Nairn received unprecedented local support, with almost unanimous support from the local community for the new store.

The multiple has been working hard to build up strong links with the community with a very successful taster day held earlier this month.

Raymond Barton said: "Everyone's worked so hard to deliver the new store as quickly as possible, and we've already had a very warm welcome from Nairn residents.

"I have been delighted by the quality of staff colleagues we have been able to recruit, the vast majority of whom live in Nairn. We have a strong team, and everyone is excited about our first Highland store.

"I'd also like to thank the Highland Council for their help and support. They have helped make it possible to open the store ahead of schedule, and we all look forward to working in partnership with the council and the local community from day one.

"Sainsbury's first new store in the Highlands is the company's 31st store in Scotland (excluding convenience), and marks a significant breakthrough for the company.

"Sainsbury's is building on a successful year having been awarded 'Community Retailer of the Year' at the Retail Industry Awards and having been awarded a gold accreditation from 'Investors in People' for its commitment to improve its business through investment in its staff colleagues."

Sainsbury's is in discussions on other sites in the Highlands, and will make further announcements when appropriate.

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