South Shields’ new £21 million transport interchange to welcome new Greggs store

A new transport interchange in South Shields is set to welcome the North East’s newest branch of Greggs.

The UK’s largest bakery chain, which is headquartered at Quorum Business Park in Newcastle, confirmed that it was planning to have the store open by the August 23, making it the first business to set up shop in the new interchange.

The decision to open a store at the site is in keeping with Greggs’ recent strategy of increasing its presence in busy transport hubs, like train stations and motorway services.

South Shields’ new interchange only opened on August 4, after a £21 million construction project was completed as part of the £100 million South Shields 365 regeneration plan.

The building provides a new home for the town’s metro and bus services under the same roof and is expected to see a high level of footfall.

Huw Lewis, customer services director at Tyne & Wear transport authority Nexus, said: “It’s great to welcome such a popular and high-profile retailer as Greggs to the new interchange in South Shields.

“The new facility gives the town the best new railway and bus station in Britain that will be used by seven and a half million passengers a year. We have had great feedback from passengers who have already used the new Interchange.

“A Greggs store is ideal for commuters who need to grab delicious and convenient snacks and drinks while they make their daily journeys.”

The new branch of Greggs will also create a number of jobs for the local area.

Roisin Currie, retail and people director at Greggs, added: “We’re delighted to be able to invest in South Shields, bringing new jobs to the area and providing both new and existing customers with a modern and convenient new shop.”