Cornish Bakery plans major expansion in the UK: what the bakery offers.

Expansion plan of the Cornish Bakery network

According to The Sun: The popular Cornish Bakery, regarded as the best alternative to Greggs, has announced its ambitious plans to open new stores across the UK. This autumn, the chain intends to open several new locations, and is also actively negotiating the opening of another five stores in 2026.

As of today, there are already up to 68 stores in Cornish Bakery, most of which are located in the southwest of England. The expansion plans are a result of successful openings in Hereford and Woodbridge, as reported by The Retail Bulletin.

The chain, which has been operating since 1994, noted a record successful summer — sales growth in August was 8%. The number of visitors increased over the last bank holiday weekend, when people went out for coffee and treats.

“Our founder, Steve Grocott, has long said that ‘the bakery is the new coffee shop’, and we are seeing this trend realized.”

Network director Matt Finch noted that the premium bakery sector is growing faster than regular cafes. Consumers are looking for fresh, high-quality products that are prepared and served on-site, rather than packaged in plastic.

“The premium bakery segment is growing much faster than traditional cafes, and customers are looking for fresh, higher quality food that is prepared and served on-site, rather than packaged in plastic. This is where we win.”

Customers also notice that Cornish Bakery is more attractive than Greggs. One visitor noted that the chain is “better than Greggs any day”, praising its vegetarian sausages, while another added: “A charitable change from Greggs.”

Prices and assortment

Shoppers who visit one of the stores can expect to pay £4 for a classic Cornish pasty, while apple, rhubarb, and custard pies cost £3.85. The menu also features coffees, desserts, and snacks.

Prices here are somewhat higher than at Greggs, where products cost around £2.

Expansion of other chains

Not only does Cornish Bakery have expansion plans. The Wenzel’s chain is also planning to expand its operations in collaboration with Southern Co-op, opening new franchised stores across the UK. Its first new store will open on September 10 in Guildford, followed by expectations of many other openings.

Additionally, B&M is opening 45 new stores this year, while Aldi plans to open another 11 new locations, including in Nelson, Durham, and Chesterfield.

In May, Aldi announced another ten locations where it plans to open stores in the summer, including in the counties of Yorkshire, Derbyshire, and Norfolk.

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The expansion of the Cornish Bakery network reflects the growing demand for fresh and quality products. Meanwhile, other networks are also actively developing, indicating positive trends in the retail sector. This growth not only enhances competition in the market but also opens new opportunities for consumers seeking variety in product offerings.