THE £16m refurbishment of John Lewis High Wycombe is underway.
Staff and contractors have been emptying 35,000 square-feet of back-office space which will be renovated to boost the shop floor - including the addition of fashion and nursery departments for the first time.
The existing selling area and restaurant will be spruced up, and the beauty and audio and visual departments will be extended.
The overall refit and extension, which received planning permission from Wycombe District Council last year, will be completed in October.
Lisa Williams, managing director of John Lewis High Wycombe, said: “I am thrilled that work on the refurbishment is officially underway.
“We have operated successfully in High Wycombe for over two decades and it seems apt that in our 25th year, we are investing to guarantee our long term presence in the region.”
“The refurbishment, which will see the introduction of both men’s and women’s fashion, nursery, toys, crafts and childrenswear, will help to ensure High Wycombe retains its rightful role as the regional shopping destination of choice.
“Our multi-million pound investment will benefit local shoppers and will also contribute significantly to the vitality of the region with the creation of around 200 new jobs.”
The Holmers Farm Way store will remain open throughout the refurbishment.
John Lewis workers - who co-own the department store - will find out what their annual partners’ bonus will be on Thursday.
