One of Leeds’ largest independent retailers has unveiled plans for a major £1.5 million investment in its historic Hyde Park supermarket, marking the first project in an ambitious six-site expansion programme announced by the company.
Abu Bakr Supermarket has confirmed plans to double the size of its Hyde Park branch from 4,000 square feet to 8,000 square feet following the completion of a comprehensive feasibility study and consultation process with customers.
The retailer examined a number of potential opportunities across Leeds as part of its long-term growth strategy. However, after reviewing the findings, the board gave the green light to a significant expansion and modernisation of the existing Hyde Park site.
The board concluded that, for sustainable growth, rather than tearing up the blueprint and starting again, it was better to strengthen the foundations that had already proven successful.
Whilst an additional new location has not been ruled out, investing in the established flagship site would enable the business to capitalise on its existing customer base, brand recognition and operational expertise while positioning itself for the next phase of growth.
For Abu Bakr, the Hyde Park store carries particular significance. Opened as the company’s first supermarket, the site has played a central role in the retailer’s growth and remains one of its most recognisable locations.
The £1.5 million redevelopment will transform the store into a modern retail destination, featuring expanded fresh food departments, upgraded customer facilities, improved accessibility and a contemporary shopping environment designed to meet the demands of customers well into the future.
The project represents the first confirmed development within Abu Bakr’s wider expansion programme, which will see six additional sites added to the company’s portfolio over the coming years.
Hamza Hussain, managing director of Abu Bakr Supermarket, said: “When we commissioned the feasibility study, every option was considered, including relocating to an entirely new site. However, the findings, combined with the feedback we received, it made the decision clear.
“Hyde Park is where Abu Bakr’s story began. It was our first supermarket and remains an important part of our identity as a business. While expanding the existing site requires a substantial £1.5 million investment, the board felt strongly that preserving and enhancing our original store was the right decision.
“This project will allow us to honour our heritage while creating a flagship supermarket fit for 2026 and beyond. We are investing not only in bricks and mortar but also in the future of the community that has supported us from the very beginning.”
Redevelopment work is now underway, with the enlarged Hyde Park site expected to become one of the most prominent stores in Abu Bakr’s Leeds portfolio and a key driver of the retailer’s next phase of expansion.
