Waitrose preview

On the evening before their new Swindon store opened, Waitrose held a preview reception for guests with a tour of the store. The store has employed 230 people, more than originally planned as the company is trying some new ideas for a supermarket, in an attempt to encourage shoppers away from online shopping. Here are some photographs from the evening.

Entrance to the new Waitrose store

A Waitrose partner receiving a bottle of champagne to mark 25 years with the company

Store Reception. There are touchscreen computers scattered throughout the store

The wine bar, with the option of sampling what is on offer.

The cheese counter. Food can be bought to eat at the tables beyond the counter, as well as to take away.

The restaurant with a view across the canal