Hundreds flock to Dunelm opening in atria Watford

The retailer has welcomed customers for the first time after taking over a large chunk of the shopping centre's former John Lewis unit.

Residents were welcomed with special offers from 9am, including the first 100 through the door getting a goodie bag with Dunelm products.

There were also 40 golden tickets hidden throughout the store worth between £5 and £20.

Shoppers flocked to the atria Watford Dunelm this morning. (Image: Watford mayor Peter Taylor)

A video posted on its social media page provided an early glimpse of what to expect – with all the usual offerings available.

Before the official unveiling, store coach Jon Cox said: “We’re so excited to be opening our newest Dunelm store in Watford.

Dunelm being officially opened in atria Watford. (Image: Watford mayor Peter Taylor)

“The team has been working incredibly hard to get everything set up and we can’t wait to welcome the local community of Watford and beyond into our amazing new home.”

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Watford mayor Peter Taylor was among those there on the morning, which he said had "great energy".

He added: "Great to welcome yet another business to our thriving town centre. Queues of people in the hundreds this morning.

Watford mayor Peter Taylor with a Dunelm employee at the official opening. (Image: Watford mayor Peter Taylor)

"I am working closely with the Watford town centre team, Watford Police, atria Watford and others to create a safe, vibrant and welcoming town centre for everyone."

Mr Taylor said highstreets nationwide are struggling but "business in our town is booming" - pointing to a "really low" store vacancy rate of 7 per cent compared to the national average of 13.9 per cent.

Dunelm workers at the official opening. (Image: Watford mayor Peter Taylor)

Store manager Jon Cox told the Watford Observer: “Our first few days of trading have been excellent – we literally had people queuing outside on Tuesday morning to be the first inside our beautiful new store and the momentum has continued ever since. 

"We’ve seen a big run on Christmas products as people get ready for the festivities, not just decorations but furniture items like foldable or stackable seating for extra guests."

Carol singers at the atria Watford opening (Image: Watford mayor Peter Taylor)