30 November 2009, 15:00 PM
  • The first mid-sized supermarket to launch in almost 30 years opened in Tattershall, Lincolnshire, last week

Haldanes stores is positioning itself as ‘mid-market’ in a bid to bridge the gap between the multiples and independents.

The Scottish chain has already taken over four Somerfield stores and plans to open 50 stores across the country by 2014.

At least 35% of its food and drink will be sourced from local producers.

“Many of the supermarkets have tried to engage local sourcing, but we don’t think any have managed it effectively,” said Arthur Harris, chairman.

“We want to get back to the days when the local store was at the hub of community life,” he explained.