New Cadbury store opening at Spalding's Springfields attracts a hundred people
Chocaholics were literally given a Boost this week as Cadbury opened its new store at Springfields in Spalding.
Around 100 customers queued in anticipation for the official opening, and it was worth their while as they were treated to free samples and hot chocolates as they checked out the wall-to-wall treats on offer.
“It’s a fantastic turnout, one of the best openings we’ve had across the UK for a Cadbury shop,” explained John Liptrot - managing director of Freshstores, the operators Cadbury outlet shops - who cut the ribbon.
“I’ve not experienced anything like this for a long time.
“Springfields has given us a huge welcome and on this cool morning people are here in their droves.
“We’re a nation of chocolate lovers, Cadbury is the nation’s number one chocolate. And even in the times we’re going through people love comfort food and chocolate is for all ages.”
Mis Shapes are the best selling product from the Cadbury range - which includes many other favourites such as Dairy Milk, Fruit and Nut, Freddo, Double Decker, Crunchie and Chomp, but also include other brands such as Fry’s, Maynards and Green & Black’s.
And looking forward to the warmer months, the store will also be selling on-the-go ice cream from a shopfront window.
Springfields’ Patrick Hanson-Lowe explained discussions with Cadbury about opening a shop at the site have been going on for around ten years.
“We’re absolutely delighted to have them here,” he said.
“It’s been quite a build up, the public have been very excited and that’s been shown by the queue here.”
Wednesday’s opening made this store the 16th Cadbury outlet in the country, and the first in Lincolnshire.
This was welcome news to Anita Ulyatt, who was first in the queue after making the bus journey from her home in Leverton.
“I just wanted to be here,” said Anita, whose favourite product is Dairy Milk.
“I’ve been to Cadbury shops in Newcastle and Blackpool when I was on holiday, but it’s nice to have one closer to home.”
Twelve-year-old Chloe Barnes, from Peterborough, was one of the first in line, delighted to queue up to get her hands on her favourite Mis Shapes.
“I just love Cadbury chocolate,” she said.
Moulton youngster James Grange is a Milky Way fan who explained he was ‘excited’ to see the shop open.
Dad Mark added: “It’s great to see it bring more customers to the area and it’s good for Springfields.
“But I might need to remortgage now.”
- For a chance to win a £100 voucher see tomorrow's Spalding Guardian.