Overview
Princebuild successfully delivered a major refurbishment of the Waitrose branch in St Albans under a challenging 7 week programme. The project required close coordination to manage works within a live trading environment, adjacent to a junior school, and under strict noise restrictions. Despite these challenges, the project was completed on time and included a special customer event the night before practical completion.
Scope of Works
The project involved a comprehensive overhaul of the store and its facilities, including:
- Full roof replacement with new insulated roofing
- Complete car park resurfacing and new white lining
- Installation of new service counters, including a brand-new sushi offering
- Sales floor decorations and full polish/clean
- Back of house flooring replacement
- New self-checkout (SCO) area
- New Click & Collect room
Energy efficiency improvements were introduced with the installation of water-cooled chillers, reducing reliance on F-Gas, and the new insulated roof further improved thermal performance.
The programme was extremely tight, and unexpected challenges included the discovery of bats within the roof parapet, requiring additional ecological measures due to their protected status. Works were carefully planned around the neighbouring school’s schedule to comply with noise curfews and minimise disruption.
Summary
The branch reopened on schedule, with a transformed look and layout that has significantly enhanced the customer experience. Improvements to the car park and internal efficiencies have contributed to a smoother shopping journey for customers.
James Jagger, Retail Lead, praised the delivery team:
“Craig and the Princebuild team were incredibly supportive, knowledgeable, and professional throughout. They always found solutions quickly and worked seamlessly with store partners and contractors. The refurbishment has made a hugely positive impression on both the central team and the local community.”
