John Lewis has announced plans for a major refurbishment of its Reading department store as part of a wider investment programme across its UK estate.
The retailer said the multi-million-pound project will bring new brands, updated shopping areas and improved services to the store, which will remain open throughout the work.
The refurbishment is expected to be completed this autumn and forms part of a programme that will eventually see investment in all 36 John Lewis stores.
Among the planned changes are a redesigned beauty hall featuring new brands and services, a new hub for vision, computing and electrical products, and a dedicated gifting area intended to make shopping easier for customers.
The store will also undergo a full redecoration and a range of modernisation works aimed at improving the overall shopping experience.
Richard Thomas, head of branch at John Lewis Reading, said the investment would create a refreshed environment for customers in Reading and Berkshire.
He said: “Through the refurbishment we will create a fresh shopping environment that truly inspires and keeps pace with what our customers need today.
“These improvements will evolve our store into an even more vibrant destination, offering more reasons to visit, discover and enjoy the unique John Lewis experience.”
The Reading project is part of more than £50 million being invested in John Lewis stores across the country this year.
The company said the programme is designed to improve customer experience and respond to changing shopping habits, including demand for expert advice, inspiration and a seamless experience between online and in-store shopping.
Alongside Reading, stores in Glasgow, Cambridge and Leicester are also set to receive multi-million-pound investments, while further improvements are planned at the Liverpool branch following refurbishment work carried out last year.
John Lewis has not announced a completion date beyond saying the Reading transformation is expected to finish during the autumn.
