A NEW retail mega store is opening today which has created almost 100 jobs in Hampshire.

The new TK Maxx HomeSense store will welcome customers for the first time and the Daily Echo were given a sneak preview of what they can expect in the new shop in Hedge End Retail Park.

The huge store spans 38,659 sq ft set over one floor and is estimated to have cost £4 million to develop by the owner TJX Europe. 

It is one of the first stores in the UK to pair TK Maxx with its sister-brand HomeSense and has provided 93 jobs to local people in sales, management and delivery.

The shop’s grand opening will be taking place today at 10am with an opening ceremony attended by the mayor.

Adam Bennett, 29, the new store manager and said: “We are all really excited about working in one of the UK’s first side by side TK Maxx and HomeSense stores – the opening is a really big moment.

“What we have done here is amazing, and the store has created almost 100 jobs in the area.”

Mr Bennett, from Hedge End, said: “I think Hampshire is a really fantastic place and all the people here have been really friendly - it is probably the best place I have lived.

“I am really looking forward to the opening and a little bit nervous, it is going to be massive.

“We have got a really strong team here and since we started recruiting I am really pleased with the team.

“We are going to have a really good opening day and have a lot of fun and the customers will see us enjoying ourselves.”

The new TK Maxx store promises to create a “treasure hunt” shopping experience for their customers as the store will receive several deliveries each week with each one containing thousands of items.

Their sister store HomeSense will also be selling unique and quality branded homeware at up to 60 per cent less than other retailers and will also offer unusual items including quirky homeware goods.

The store is also one of only a few in the chain that will sell alcohol and amid the displays of homeware and furnishings on offer, shoppers can browse an impressive wine and champagne selection.

Councillor Suzy Hamel, Eastleigh Borough Council Cabinet Member for Business, Skills and Education said: “I think it’s fantastic news for the local area and is bringing a good brand to Hedge End - it will give local people more choice.

“TK Maxx together with HomeSense is something that is not on offer in this area and it is good to have them in the borough.

“I think it will attract residents in the borough and also further afield making it good for Eastleigh and the rest of Southampton.”

Deborah Dolce, spokesperson for TK Maxx and HomeSense, said: “We think that Southampton shoppers will love having TK Maxx and HomeSense together on their doorstep.

“Both stores offer a huge choice of great value style for the wardrobe and the home all under one roof and at up to 60 per cent less.

“With new items arriving each week, customers will always find something individual and special at a great price.”