Big changes are happening behind the walls at PAK’nSAVE Richmond

Customers are beginning to see major improvements at their local store, with the first stage of a significant refurbishment and expansion opening last week.

PAK’nSAVE Richmond is undergoing a major upgrade designed to offer more choice, better availability and a faster, easier shopping experience. The first stage of the project, which opened early last week, includes a new customer entrance, a dedicated Aisle of Value and an expanded produce hall.

With all works expected to be completed by October 2026, the project will increase the store’s footprint by around 20%, creating more room for products, services and improved back-of-house operations.

PAK’nSAVE Richmond Owner-Operator Glenn Anderson said the focus has always been on keeping the store in step with customers’ needs.

"When my wife Tracey and I bought the store, we knew it would eventually need a major upgrade," Glenn said.

"Richmond has a bright future, and this investment will help us serve customers better now while giving us room to grow."

Foodstuffs South Island Head of Property Steven Mitchell said the project will improve both the customer experience and behind-the-scenes operations.

"This is much more than an extension. It’s about reshaping the store so it can better serve customers and support the team for years to come," Steven said.

"A new entrance on the left-hand side of the store will lead customers through PAK’nSAVE’s Aisle of Value and into an expanded fresh produce department. Once the internal wall between the extension and existing store comes down, the space will open up and the store’s flow and feel will change completely."

For customers, the current Aisle of Value and produce area will become extended grocery aisles, creating more shelf space, better availability across key categories and a broader range. The existing entry area will become a larger self-checkout zone, helping customers move through faster.

The refurbishment will double self-checkouts from 11 to 22, double online order preparation space, and significantly increase freezer and dairy capacity. Customers will also see stronger offers across deli, frozen and international ranges.

"The changes customers see in-store are only part of the story," Steven said.

"Behind the scenes, we’re expanding and modernising storage, preparation and fulfilment areas to create a more efficient, resilient operation. That means better shelf availability, more room to grow, and a better working environment for the team."

Steven said local contractors are playing a central role in delivering the project.

"We’ve deliberately leaned on local expertise wherever we can," he said.

"Coman Construction is leading the build, alongside local plumbers and Richmond-based tradespeople working across the project. It means the investment stays in the community while helping deliver a store that will serve the region for years to come."

The project is being delivered in stages, with early work already completed on a covered delivery yard and expanded freezer facilities.

Glenn said the investment reflects a long-term commitment to the Richmond community and wider Tasman region.

"This locally owned store has served Richmond for many years, and this investment ensures it can keep meeting local shoppers’ needs well into the future," Steven said.

"It’s about creating a store that’s ready for what’s next while continuing to deliver the value and service customers expect from PAK’nSAVE."

"The extra space will make a real difference.”

“It will help us work more efficiently, improve availability for customers and create a store ready for whatever comes next."