Foodstuffs commits to rebuilding New World Victoria Park after fire
Photo:
RNZ/Marika Khabazi
Foodstuffs says it's "100 percent committed to rebuilding" New World Victoria Park at the same site as its
fire-damaged predecessor
.
A massive blaze broke out at the central Auckland supermarket in June, taking more than 10 hours to extinguish and significantly damaging the building.
The announcement of a new store was made on the supermarket's social media.
"Work is well under way to make our fire-damaged site safe for entry.
"Right now, it's still too dangerous for anyone to go inside, but specialist crews and structural engineers are on-site, carefully stabilising the building so we can begin the recovery."
"We're 100 percent committed to rebuilding a new supermarket on the same site. Our focus is on getting back up and running as quickly as we can, but safety comes first."
The statement went on to say it has brought forward the opening of the store in Point Chevalier to 19 August, which is 5km away.
The New World store in Victoria Park had
employed more than 180 people
. Foodstuffs said it continues to work with affected staff.
"To our amazing team, we're continuing to work one-on-one with each of you and are so grateful for your patience and resilience.
"Being part of the Foodstuffs North Island co-operative means Foodstuffs have been able to off over 100 roles across 23 Auckland stores, and we're doing everything we can to help our people find the right next step," the statement on social media said.
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