OneBeyond eyes 80-store expansion as it explores Poundland sites
OneBeyond plans to expand its UK estate from 120 to 200 stores within 18 months, a proposed growth drive that could take its workforce from 1,650 to more than 3,000. The family-owned discount retailer is discussing a number of potential locations with Poundland, but any new openings will depend on suitable sites becoming available and meeting its requirements.
The plan would add 80 shops to OneBeyond’s current network, extending its reach to more towns and cities. The retailer sells a 5,000 strong range of everyday essentials, homeware, toys and seasonal products, and is seeking to bring that offer to more communities across the UK.
Chris Edwards Jnr, owner and chief executive of OneBeyond, said: “We have the experience, ambition and ability to act quickly. Our goal is to take OneBeyond to 200 stores within 18 months, and should the right opportunities become available, we are ready to move.
“OneBeyond is growing rapidly, driven by increasing demand for our unique value proposition and excellent shopping experience. Customers expect exceptional value, an ever-changing product range and a compelling reason to return, we are delivering on all three. We see significant opportunities to expand our presence across the UK, bringing OneBeyond to more towns and cities, creating new jobs and growing our workforce to over 3,000 people.”
Poundland locations under discussion
The talks come as OneBeyond considers whether suitable Poundland stores could support its expansion. Edwards said the uncertainty facing Poundland’s employees and the communities served by its shops was significant, and said established retailers could help provide a future for some locations if a company-wide rescue cannot be secured.
“Having spent my career in discount retail, I know how much these businesses matter to their colleagues and customers. This is an unsettling time for the people involved.
“If a rescue of Poundland as a whole cannot be secured, established retailers such as OneBeyond can play an important role in providing a future for suitable stores and employment opportunities for affected colleagues. “We are already engaging with the relevant parties about suitable store opportunities and are ready to act quickly. As a UK based family-owned retailer, our ambition is to invest in these locations for the long term, keeping affordable shopping at the heart of local communities.”
OneBeyond has its roots in the value-retail sector: the company says it was founded by Chris and Christopher Edwards, who also founded Poundworld. OneBeyond opened its first store in 2019 and changed its name from One Below in 2023, according to its company information.
Each potential opening remains subject to availability, commercial terms and the site meeting OneBeyond’s requirements. The retailer is also inviting landlords and property agents to put forward suitable locations.
