Angling Direct on track to open new stores

Angling Direct, the AIM-listed fishing tackle and equipment retailer, has today announced the opening of new stores in Swindon and Slough.

The company has not set a launch date for the Swindon site but said the new Slough store is expected to open in September or October. The two openings will bring the total number of stores operated by the company to 17, with “others following soon”.

With both sites being leasehold and new build, the Swindon store occupies a 4,600 sq ft display area while the Slough store occupies a 4250 sq ft area.

Chief executive Daren Bailey said: “The vast array of lake and river fishing within the surrounding areas supports the company’s rationale for opening new stores in these locations, with the aim of capturing a large proportion of their respective angling communities.

“As we seek to cater for all anglers across the UK, we will continue to strategically expand our geographical footprint as well as enhance our online offering in terms of products, experience and education.”

Angling Direct is headquartered at the Rackheath Industrial Estate in Norwich. The company floated on the AIM market of the London Stock Exchange in early July, raising £9m in fresh capital.

Founder and executive chairman Martyn Page told Insider that the business will continue to focus on consolidation in the UK market and expand through a combination of opening new stores and acquiring other strategic locations.