A RAPIDLY expanding gift, stationery and book retailer is set to open a brand-new store in the centre of Ringwood.

The Works will begin trading on Thursday, February 16, at the former McColl’s and Post Office site in Southampton Road, which has been empty since August 2020.

Joining nearby branches in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole, and more than 520 stores nationwide, The Works is known for selling a range of books, art and craft materials, gifts, games, stationery, and home accessories.

Area manager Nick Harding told the Echo that Ringwood was a “perfect” location for the new store and that more shoppers are now leaning towards discount retailers.

“Our property director has been very keen on getting us into Ringwood and I did a site visit there early last year – so it’s been on the cards for a while”, Nick said.

Bournemouth Echo: The Works store in Poole High StreetThe Works store in Poole High Street (Image: Google)

“It’s a nice big unit for us, a good spacious size and we hope it’ll do as well as our other local stores. We’re continuing to expand in what is a difficult market but it shows the strength of the business that we’re still able to do that.

“The Works is showing to be a retailer of choice in what are difficult financial times for a lot of people. What we sell is not cheap, it’s value for money.”

This comes soon after similar retailer WHSmith closed its long-time store in Ringwood High Street following a lease expiring and unviable trading.

Nick stated his belief that The Works would be able to fill the void left by the WHSmith store. He said: “Selling stationery will fill the void in the town and a lot of our books that are brand new releases will do the same but, again, I think we offer it at better value.”

Bournemouth Echo: Interior of The Works store in Spinning Gate Shopping Centre, LeighInterior of The Works store in Spinning Gate Shopping Centre, Leigh (Image: Newsquest)

Residents on social media also gave their thoughts on The Works opening in the market town, with some expressing excitement and others concern about possible impact to independent retailers such as art store Lunns.

However, one woman said: “I think there is room for The Works without hurting Lunns. They will be replacing a lot of what WHSmith sold – craft kits, books, puzzles.”

The new store will create around seven jobs.

Nick added: “Ringwood is a great little town and I think we’re going to have what people are looking for. We’re very excited to get started.”