A SUPERMARKET chain that sells surplus food at low-cost prices is coming to Southampton in a move that will create 40 jobs.

Company Shop Group, which prevents food and other products going to waste, is opening a store at Campana House in Hawkeswood Road, Bitterne Manor, in August.

Working with major retailers Company Shop redistributes surplus food and household products, often selling them at half the normal retail price.

Membership is open to almost almost all key workers, including those in the NHS, the social care system and the armed forces.

The new store - Company Shop Southampton - will extend its membership to people in receipt of means-tested benefits, including families with children receiving free school meals.

All those eligible need to do is sign up for a free membership card online ahead of the store's opening.

A Company Shop spokesperson said: "All the products sold are in date and perfectly good to eat or use but are deemed ‘surplus’ and may have otherwise gone to waste due to incorrect labelling, seasonal packaging or overstock among many other reasons.

"Company Shop is also encouraging local manufacturers, retailers and brands to get in touch if they are looking for sustainable surplus solutions for their products."

Steph McGinty, managing director at Company Shop Group, added: "We can’t wait to open Company Shop Southampton and bring our offer to the region during a critical period when it is more important than ever to give communities extra support.

"The store will serve thousands of locals across Southampton and beyond whilst creating new jobs in the area."

Ms McGinty said the move would help stretch family budgets as well as tackling the issue of food waste in the process.

She added: "The opening of Company Shop Southampton has been made possible thanks to the ongoing support we have received from our industry partners, members, local organisations and the wider community.

"I would encourage anyone who is eligible for membership to go to our website and sign up straight away."