New supermarket brings 60 new jobs
The Woolworths Nelson Junction store ribbon is cut by Mayor of Nelson Nick Smith, Gibbons governing director Roger Gibbons, Woolworths NZ managing director Sally Copland, Gibbons managing director Scott Gibbons and MP for Nelson Rachel Boyack. Photo: Supplied.
The new Woolworths supermarket at Nelson Junction opened its doors last week, bringing 60 new jobs to the city.
There are more than 90 people on the team at the new 4,000m2 store, which is located in the Annesbrook-based shopping complex.
The store was officially opened by MP for Nelson, Rachel Boyack, on 30 October.
“I am pleased that 60 new jobs have been created through this opening, not to mention the many jobs involved in the design, planning and build of the site,” Rachel says.
More than 400 people were interviewed for jobs at the supermarket.
“At a tough time for our local economy, these types of investments in local jobs are very welcome,” Rachel says. “Knowing that the supermarket puts more money into the pockets of the hardworking people who work here that comes back into our local community - that’s really important to me.”
It will also allow a more convenient shopping option for Tāhunanui, Annesbrook, Enner Glynn and Bishopdale residents, added Nelson Mayor Nick Smith.
Woolworths New Zealand managing director Sally Copland said the company is proud to be “growing their presence” and bringing new jobs to the region.
“Investing in New Zealand isn’t just about our products, stores, price or convenience, it’s also about the difference we can make in the communities where our millions of Kiwi customers live and shop.”
The supermarket is part of the Nelson Junction complex developed by Nelson-based property development and investment company Gibbons Holding Ltd.
Managing director Scott Gibbons calls it a “significant piece in the puzzle” of the development.
“We are thrilled to add Woolworths to the vibrant mix of stores at Nelson Junction, further establishing it as a premier shopping destination for the Nelson-Tasman region.”
The new supermarket features a purpose-built online facility that supports both home delivery and direct-to-boot services.
Woolworths is targeting a 4 Green Star Design and As-Built Certification for the new store, which incorporates several key sustainability features, including 10 EV charging stations and 28 low-emission parking bays.
All lighting throughout the store is LED, and refrigeration cases have been fitted with doors to improve energy efficiency.
Shower facilities have been provided for the team, and the roof has been future-proofed to allow for the installation of solar panels at a later stage.