Ipswich Bazaar plans to open on July 22 in Ipswich

Ipswich Bazaar is hoping to open its doors in Carr Street to the public on Monday, July 22, serving a variety of foods from countries around the world.

The 26,000 sq ft building will house a multi-cultural food supermarket with internationally themed aisles of produce.

Included in the supermarket will be a 14-metre-long Halal meat counter, a fresh fish section, a bakery and an 80-seat restaurant with a staffed creche.

In March, it was revealed that Ipswich Bazaar was taking over the former Poundland on a 25-year-lease, with director Ariful Islam saying: "I am pleased to open Ipswich Bazaar to cater to everyone’s needs in Ipswich.

Ipswich Bazaar in the former Poundland (Image: Tom Cann)

"I want this to be a supermarket where everyone and anyone of any nationality can come and get their day-to day grocery needs."

The store will create 50 new jobs, with positions being advertised for an experienced fish monger and baker.

In May, signage for the new shop went up around the outside of the building, while work continued inside the premises to renovate the shop.

Paul Keen of Penn Commercial (right) with Ariful Islam, director of Ipswich Bazaar Ltd (Image: Penn Commercial)

Mr Islam added: "Ipswich town centre has suffered since Covid, and I believe that setting up Ipswich Bazaar will bring not only job opportunities for people, but a reason to visit the town centre also.

"I own a transport company, which is staffed by over 100 people. I want to create job opportunities for people and use my ability to manage into my new shop.

"Not only do I want this to be just a supermarket, but I am also providing an Indian-Turkish restaurant, where all families are welcome, with complimentary on-site facilities for children."