THE south coast will become that little bit sweeter as Haribo, has confirmed plans to open its first retail store in Hampshire.

The leading sweets manufacturer will open its 10th UK store, just in time for Halloween.

Shoppers at Gunwharf Quays in Portsmouth will be able to stock up on Haribo and Maoam Halloween treats, alongside global favourites and exclusive merchandise.

Jon Hughes, managing director of Haribo UK, said: “We hope the people in the south of England are ready to feel like a kid in a sweet shop again.

“Haribo is all about creating moments of childlike happiness and our stores do exactly that. 

“We can see pure joy and excitement in our customers' faces from the moment they step through our doors.

"Shoppers will experience the nostalgic feeling when creating their very own treat mix at our Pick’n’Mix station.”

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He added: “We are excited to be opening our store just before Halloween ensuring that our Haribo fans in Hampshire are able to stock up for their trick or treat.

“We have an ambitious plan to strengthen our retail footprint creating several new jobs for the local area whilst bringing excitement and exclusive products across the UK.”

Yvonne Clay, Centre Director at Gunwharf Quays in Portsmouth, added: “We’re always looking for ways to diversify our offering at Gunwharf Quays, and Haribo will be a perfectly timed addition to our retail line-up this October.

“With a vast selection of confectionary on offer, ranging from the iconic Starmix to Giant Strawbs and seasonal sweet treats, we’re confident guests of all ages will love letting out their inner child at the new store.”

Haribo currently operates in eight outlets across the UK, in Braintree Village in Essex and Clarks Village in Somerset, as well as at the McArthur Glen Designer Outlets in York, Cheshire, Ashford, Swindon, West Midlands and East Midlands.

A further store is situated at the Haribo Headquarter in Pontefract, Yorkshire, where the family-owned business has been making and innovating the much-loved, iconic treats for over 50-years.