Waitrose Finchley reopens after multi‑million refurbishment
The Ballards Lane store opened on 4 September 2026 with a new bakery, dry‑aged beef cabinet and upgraded wine, fish and sushi counters.
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Waitrose announced that its Finchley supermarket on Ballards Lane reopened on 4 September 2026 following a multi‑million‑pound refurbishment. The reopening was marked by staff handing out tote bags and complimentary drinks to early shoppers. The store now operates from 8 am to 9 pm Monday to Saturday and 11 am to 5 pm on Sundays, as reported by the Times Series.
Refurbishment details
Waitrose Finchley reopens with new bakery and dry‑aged beef cabinet
The refurbished store on Ballards Lane opened after a week of works, with MP Sarah Sackman cutting the ribbon and early shoppers receiving free tote bags and a drink
The refurbishment introduced a redesigned bakery that offers a broader range of freshly baked goods. A dry‑aged beef cabinet now displays premium British cuts sourced from farms with high animal‑welfare standards. The wine department has been expanded to include an extensive selection of award‑winning bottles. In addition, the fish, deli and sushi counters have been upgraded with new equipment and display cases, improving both presentation and service speed, according to the Ham & High report.
Wider investment programme
Waitrose said the Finchley upgrade forms part of a £1 billion multi‑year investment programme aimed at improving its national estate. The programme includes the refurbishment of 28 stores during 2026 and the opening of new locations, such as an 18,000‑square‑foot full‑line food store on Cricklewood Broadway scheduled for autumn 2026. The company also plans to expand into airport retail, with a launch at Heathrow Terminal 2 later this year.
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“Having been a proud part of this community for over three decades, we are excited to unveil a refreshed store designed entirely around our customers.”
Edward Caswell, branch manager
Residents can now shop at the modernised Finchley store and expect a smoother experience across all departments. Waitrose will monitor customer feedback throughout the reopening weekend and will adjust staffing or product ranges as needed. Further updates on the Cricklewood opening will be issued by the retailer later this year.
Questions this report answers
+When did the Finchley Waitrose store reopen?
The store reopened on 4 September 2026 after a multi‑million‑pound refurbishment, as reported by the Times Series. The reopening marked the start of a new trading period with extended opening hours and a refreshed interior.
+What upgrades were included in the refurbishment?
The refurbishment added a redesigned bakery, a dry‑aged beef cabinet, an expanded wine department and new fish, deli and sushi counters. These changes aim to improve product variety and the overall shopping experience, according to the Ham & High report.
+How many staff work at the Finchley store?
Branch manager Edward Caswell leads a team of 174 employees at the Finchley location. He confirmed the staff count in comments to the Times Series, highlighting the store’s role as a significant local employer.
+What is the wider investment programme behind the refurbishment?
Waitrose’s £1 billion multi‑year programme includes refurbishing 28 stores in 2026 and opening new sites such as the 18,000‑square‑foot store on Cricklewood Broadway due to open in autumn 2026. The programme also targets airport retail expansion, as detailed by the retailer.
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