New Costcutter store officially opened by Mayor of Grantham

A new Grantham convenience store, described as “the heart of the local community”, held its official opening ceremony.

The ribbon was cut today (Friday) to officially open the new Costcutter store in Princess Drive, which replaced a former Co-op store that closed at the end of January.

Owner of the new store, Sriram Udhayakumaran Tiras, known as Sri, aged 30, took the building over from the Co-op and opened his new business on February 2.

Sri already owned a Costcutter store in Stamford, and said that he was “pleased” that the Grantham store had become part of the community.

Sri added: “It’s been really good. We’ve had some really positive comments.”

On Friday, Sri organised face-painting for children who came into the stall, as well as free food samples. He was also joined by many friends and family members.

The store was officially opened by Mayor of Grantham, Councillor Graham Jeal.

He said: “It’s fabulous that the store remains at the heart of the local community.

“You never see it empty. There is always a steady stream of customers.”

Richard Crocker, new business and acquisition manager at Bestway, which owns Costcutter, said: “The key things in terms of the local community is that Costcutter stock Co-op products, which provides continuity for customers.”

Richard told a story from the first week of the store being open. He explained that a lady came to the store and realised that it was no longer a Co-op.

“She said that she would go to the local Tesco instead,” Richard added. “But Sri showed her the products on offer and she stayed.”

Richard confirmed that “most” of the previous Co-op employees had stayed on, including the store manager.

After the building ceased to be a Co-op store, it was refitted and given a refresh.

New products were added, including a milkshake machine, a dedicated American shelf, and products for the Eastern European community.

There is also a kitchen on-site, which provides fresh food in-store.