AN OPENING date has been revealed for a new bargain retailer set to open up in Rayleigh High Street.

Quality Discounts (QD) will be opening a new store in the former M&Co building, in 66-72 High Street, in Rayleigh.

According to a sign, outside the new store, it will be opening next week on October 25.

The sign states: “Hello, we are Quality Discounts, and we like to say it loud and proud.

“We have a fantastic range of products to make your house a home and everything for every season.

“At Quality Discounts there is something for all the family – including the dog.

“As a family owned, independent store, we look forward to welcoming you soon.

“Opens October 25, 2023.”

The QD Group is an independent, family-owned chain of High Street value retail outlets, who hold more than 50 stores.

Their mission is to provide shoppers with “unbeatable value and extensive choice with quality products at discounted prices”.

Alongside food, homeware, gardening, pet, and cleaning supplies at cheap prices, it will also bring 26 new full and part-time jobs.

The former M&Co shop has stood empty since the end of last year after the firm plunged into administration – resulting in nearly 2,000 jobs being lost.

Danielle Belton, chairman of Rayleigh Town Council, has welcomed the news.

She said: “I am delighted that QD are opening next week, and that the old M&Co store hasn't remained vacant for too long.

“The loss of M&Co was a big one to the Town, but the fact another national brand has joined the High Street, is testament to the fact Rayleigh remains a great place to live and work.

“I was exceptionally happy to hear that a number of former employees have been given jobs in the new store.

“I look forward to meeting the whole team at the grand opening and will be in line to bag myself a quality bargain.

“I hope other commercial landlords of vacant properties in the town, take a proactive approach in agreeing leases to the businesses wanting to grow in our wonderful, good award high street.”