Kevin Robertson, Sales Director at Glasswells, shares more details behind its recent refurbishment project as the business looks to bring five years of updates to a grand finale.
At the end of June, Glasswells announced its most recent renovation, investing a significant £500,000 into the ground floor at its Bury St Edmunds store. The latest refurbishment project is final piece in its revamp puzzle that has seen the store completely transformed over the last few years.
It’s all about reinvesting to build on past growth and to modernise the space to create a first-class shopping environment. “Refurbishment work began with the design phase in 2023, with final plans receiving approval in 2024,” Kevin revealed. “This marked the start of detailed fixture drawings and preparation for implementation.
“Significant changes include a complete upgrade of the lighting system, including new electrical infrastructure to support modern lighting grid displays. All flooring across both the lower and upper ground floors is being replaced, transitioning from carpet to LVT (Luxury Vinyl Tile) to enhance durability and aesthetic appeal.
“The refurbishment also features contemporary fixturing designed to better showcase a variety of products, along with expanded areas for pictures and mirrors, as well as lighting displays.”
Glasswells is working with John Evans Interior Architecture & Design on the refit, which has been a smooth and collaborative partnership so far. “We partnered with John Evans to bring the project to life,” Kevin said. “They presented the initial design concept, which we then developed collaboratively to reach the final approved scheme.
“Over the past five years, we’ve been upgrading each department to create a more modern, inviting, and enjoyable shopping environment. We’ve just begun Phase 1 of the refurbishment, with the work planned across three carefully managed phases. This phased approach allows us to keep the departments open and trading while the transformation takes place.
“This final phase ensures that every corner of the store reflects the same standard of comfort, style, and convenience that our customers have come to expect. So far, everything is progressing well, and we’re aiming to complete all phases by autumn.”
Upon completion, Glasswells aims to enhance the shopping experience that truly “inspires our customers”, as Paul Glasswell, Managing Director, adds: “This refurbishment is part of our ongoing investment in enhancing the store’s ambience and delivering an exceptional customer journey. We’ve been a part of the town since 1946, and this is about building for the future — we’re here to stay.
“The refurbishment will also allow us to expand key categories—Gifts, Linens, and Cookshop—offering greater choice and fresh ideas. We want customers to feel inspired, find more of what they love, and enjoy a more seamless, engaging visit every time they shop with us.”
In keeping with reinvesting back into the business, Glasswells has also recently invested in a makeover for its “very busy and popular” restaurant. This included enhanced lighting, refreshed décor, and all-new tables and chairs, creating a more inviting and comfortable space for its guests to enjoy.
The company has also benefited from the warmer weather too, with sales of garden furniture delivering a strong performance, helping to offset a challenging environment and ensuring the business maintains its market share. Following the final phase of its refurbishment journey, it is hoped that this will also boost business further.
“We’re continuously looking for ways to enhance our store and ensure the shopping experience remains fresh and relevant,” Kevin added. “The Glasswell family has proudly reinvested in the business for over 80 years, always with an eye on the future and that commitment will continue for many years to come.”
