Major new Somerset store for Sports Direct takes shape

Signs have gone up at the former Original Factory store in Minehead, which closed in March this year, advertising sportswear and the name of Sports Direct.

The brand is now set to open at the site, with staff wanted. Several jobs, including a supervisor role, have been posted via job sites, including Indeed. One description of a role reads 'Supervisor - New Store Opening' in Minehead, Somerset,' and has a basic salary rate starting from £25,160.00 per annum.

It follows plans that were submitted to install Sports Direct signage at a premises on Mart Road, Minehead.

Major Somerset store for UK's largest sports retailer takes shape

Drawings have already been submitted via the Somerset Council planning portal website showing existing and proposed elevations for the site, with the applicant proposing to set up 10 signs and two poster boards.

Sports Direct currently operates from five locations across Somerset - with stores at Taunton, Weston-super-Mare, Yeovil, Bridgwater and Street.

The biggest Sports Direct in the UK is the Liverpool flagship store, located on Church Street. This massive location spans 90,000 square feet across three storeys and features a dedicated running concept, major brand partner zones, and an Everlast gym.

A part of Frasers Group, Sports Direct is the largest sporting goods retailer in the UK, known for selling sports equipment, clothing, footwear, and accessories at heavily discounted prices. Founded in 1982 by Mike Ashley, the retailer is renowned for stocking major global brands like Nike and Adidas.

A spokesperson for The Frasers Group said: “We are pleased to be opening a new 6,000 sq ft Sports Direct store in Minehead.

“Due to open in August, this store will offer local customers access to the world’s best sports and lifestyle brands, alongside brands from Frasers Group’s ecosystem, including USC and GAME.”

There are currently no plans to make any modifications to the site's exterior.