The M&S Foodhall signs have gone up outside the former Dreams furniture shop as the new store gets ready to open.

Ashford's third M&S store will open for business in just over a fortnight.

The retail giant says the first day of trading will be from 10am on Wednesday, June 28.

Marks & Spencer first revealed its plans to open a Foodhall store at the Warren Retail Park off Simone Weil Avenue in Ashford in August last year.

The company says the new 7,000 sq ft store, which includes a 46-seat cafe, will create up to 70 jobs.

Manager Mathew Lawrence said: “We are really excited to be bringing this new M&S Foodhall to Ashford residents just in time for summer.

“We’ve truly got the very best of food, from traditional favourites to seasonal creations – including an extensive selection of the Spirit of Summer range that will take our customers on a culinary adventure through the Med.

“Our customers will also be able to relax and enjoy a refreshing drink or meal in our cafe while they shop with us, which I know has been long awaited.

“The customer will be at the heart of everything we do and we can’t wait to open our doors and hear their feedback. I’m looking forward to welcoming everyone.”

It will also include an online collection service, and a bakery with speciality breads, pastries and cakes. The store will be open from 8am to 8pm during the week, from 8am to 7pm on Saturday and from 10am to 4pm on Sunday.

The news follows recent profit warnings from the retail giant, which last year announced store closures in the clothing and homeware sectors.

But bosses are focusing their efforts on opening new food stores in a bid to boost profits and compete against similar middle-class food outlets like Waitrose and Sainsbury’s, which already have stores nearby. It will be Ashford’s third Marks & Spencer store, with a town centre clothing and food hall, and a clothing store at the Designer Outlet.

M&S says the opening of the new Foodhall will not impact on the future of these.