WALKING into the new “mega” Greggs in London’s Leicester Square – I was hot with anticipation.
Yes, it’s the hottest day since records began – but I was buzzing to see inside the bakery chain’s flagship branch.
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There has been so much hype around the opening, with some fans dubbing it “mega Greggs” on social media.
Yesterday, there was a grand opening with a blue-coloured carpet as the retailer recreated the glam and glitz of a film premiere to promote its newest restaurant.
Invitees were treated to free bubbly and sausage rolls.
The location also sounds grand. The shop is situated on 1 Leicester Square, in the heart of the West End. Nearby is the huge M&M World, which is often crowded with tourists.
But when I arrived – I was quite disappointed.
As I walked under a massive American cinema-style “Greggs” sign inside, I realised it looks just like any normal Greggs on the high street.
The one redeeming feature, apart from the shiny new interior, was the welcome blast of aircon.
The 12,500 sqft unit employs around 50 staff and offers what you would know and love from a typical branch – everything from sausage rolls, sandwiches and pastries to cold and hot drinks.
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The prices are the same as other outlets you’ll find in central London branches too.
A 500ml bottle of Lucozade Orange will cost you £1.90, a small bag of Walker’s Crisps 95p, and you can get a meal deal (a cold sandwich and hot or cold drink) for £4.25.
You can order via click and collect, which they started rolling out in 2020.
The retailer has big expansion plans, with 150 new sites in 2022.
But there was no indoor seating at the flagship branch and the customer facing side was very much like what I have come across in other Greggs’ spots, if not smaller.
I was pleased to hear about the opening times. The opening hours are Monday to Saturday, 6am to 11pm. While on Sunday’s it’s open 7am to 11pm.
That’s much later than my local Greggs.
And the prices, while being the same as in other Greggs’ outlets across central London, were reasonable for the area.
And the staff were super cheery and friendly.
While it was a bit of an anti-climax it still has all the elements that has made Greggs so popular with customers.
I also love the thought of a tourist stopping in for a sausage roll, steak bake and a doughnut before going to see a West End show.
But if you’re looking for something a little bit special, you may leave feeling a little let down.
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