Ambitious plans for return to retail
MORNING Noon and Night’s Stephen Thompson has launched a new retail brand, with plans to open at least 30 stores.
Eddy’s Food Station opened its doors on 11 May in Alloa, creating 14 new jobs in the process.
The new retail brand is named after Thompson’s father Eddie. Eddie and Stephen Thompson achieved significant commercial success through their Morning Noon and Night brand, selling the chain’s 50 stores for £30m in 2004.
Expansion is high on the agenda for Eddy’s Food Station, according to Thompson, who said he expects to hit the 30 store mark in five years. The retailer said his plans will lead to the creation of 500 retail roles across Central Scotland.
Thompson’s return to convenience retail follows a decade-long spell as a senior football executive, having served as chairman of Dundee United Football Club from 2008 to 2018.
Commenting on the launch, Thompson said: “The opportunity to operate a successful chain of convenience stores is very promising right now and this venture is an extremely exciting first leg of a long journey for the Eddy’s Food Station brand.
“The retail industry is an industry I know and love. It’s an avenue I’ve always wanted to return to and I couldn’t be happier that it’s finally happening. We’re investing heavily in resources and research into our offering and we’re passionate about giving our customers an unrivalled, superior experience.
“We’re taking this opportunity to shake up the market, creating a retail experience that combines convenience and quality and goes above and beyond customer expectations. Our employees are fully equipped to create an environment that will give customers the best possible experience and create a real sense of community.”
