B&M store in Thamesmead has 'long queues and cramped aisles'

Scenes on opening week were compared to a "massive traffic jam", with disappointed shoppers quick to vent their frustration on social media.

One customer even described the situation as an accessibility "nightmare", while boxes of merchandise cluttering the aisles added to the chaos.

B&M's newly established store at Cannon Retail Park, 6 Twin Tumps Way, opened its doors on February 22.

The new store, which replaced a former Wilko, is a seven-minute walk from the town centre.

The website promised that shoppers would be "spoilt for choice", with bargains and "Wow Deals" on everything from bathroom furniture to stationery.

However, some customers were not impressed by shop's layout.

Matt McIntosh said on Facebook that "the aisles are too cramped".

Another customer, Sarah Day, shared her experience, commenting: "I went today and aisles are too narrow.

"Also have trolleys and boxes of stuff in the aisles which means you can't get past.

"Won't be going back until it calms down."

One shopper said there was so much her daughter couldn't access (Image: B&M)

Accessibility was also a concern for one Thamesmead resident.

Nanny Jack said: "Won't be going back.

"My daughter uses a scooter due to disability and it was a nightmare.

"So much we couldn't access because of queues and if someone was coming the other way with a trolley or buggy there just wasn't enough room."

Thamesmead residents were also put off by the lengths of the checkout queues, especially on opening day.

Yvonne Harris said: "Visited on opening day, naively and left after 10 steps after seeing the checkout queue!"

However, she added: "I'm glad we have it near and also that it was so popular but will wait a while before returning."

Other shoppers were very pleased to welcome the new B&M to Thamesmead.

Jane Bridson said on Facebook: "I for one appreciated it.

"Good addition.

"More shops like this needed."

READ MORE: Brand new B&M opens at Thamesmead Cannon Retail Park

This new outlet is one of 45 set to open in 2024, a crucial part of B&M's growth plan, with 17 new locations already revealed.

A spokesperson for B&M said: "Our new store opening for Thamesmead has proven to be incredibly popular, and the brand-new store team have worked extremely hard to ensure that customers are supported and happy throughout their shopping experience—even throughout busy periods.

"We are so proud of the brand-new Thamesmead team and what they have achieved since the store opened.

"We look forward to welcoming customers back and providing them with the exciting shopping experience synonymous with B&M—offering great-value branded products at fantastic prices."