Exciting New Businesses Coming to Epsom: What’s Opening and What It Means for Our Local Economy
Epsom town centre and the Ashley Centre continue to evolve, with new brands and independent venues preparing to open their doors — a sign of confidence in our local economy and a boost for residents, visitors and workers alike. From major retailers to independent cafés and new experiences, here’s a round-up of what’s coming soon to Epsom.
🎉 Primark is Coming to the Ashley Centre (Spring 2026)
One of the biggest retail announcements for Epsom in recent years is the arrival of Primark. The multinational fashion retailer has confirmed it will open a two-storey 44,000 sq ft store in the Ashley Centre, taking the space previously occupied by House of Fraser. The opening is scheduled for Spring 2026 and is expected to create around 100 local jobs, bringing a major high-street brand right into the heart of town. Primark will offer its full range of clothing, accessories, homeware and lifestyle products, further diversifying the shopping experience for Epsom residents.
This new store forms the centrepiece of a wider refurbishment and revitalisation of the Ashley Centre, including enhancements to entrances, signage and public spaces - improving the town centre environment and encouraging more people to shop locally.
🛍 New Shops Already Opened at the Ashley Centre
The Ashley Centre has already attracted several notable new brands that have opened or are preparing to open:
These additions are part of a strategic effort to enhance the retail mix, making Epsom not just a place to shop for essentials but a destination for fashion, gifts and lifestyle products as well.
🍴 Green & Bean Café Opening Soon
Another welcome addition to the High Street (previously Ai Printers) is Green & Bean café, opening soon and offering another local spot for coffee, brunch and healthy meals. Independent cafés add character and community focus to town centres, giving residents more reasons to spend time and money locally.
There’s growing excitement among local food lovers about the possibility of Giggling Squid, the popular UK Thai restaurant chain, opening a branch in Epsom. Back in 2023 it was reported that the brand had plans for a new site in South Street, Epsom, among other locations around the country - part of a significant expansion strategy moving into the Surrey area. Some of those plans were cancelled due to government tax rises. But it seems Epsom may well be back on the Giggling Squid agenda!
While no official opening date has yet been confirmed and Giggling Squid has not publicly announced the exact location, recent job advertisements hinting at a new restaurant nearby have fuelled speculation that this well-loved chain could soon bring its fresh, authentic Thai dishes to the local dining scene. If it arrives, it would add another exciting option for residents and visitors alike, alongside the other new eateries and cafés appearing in town.
📈 What This Means for Epsom’s Local Economy
These new openings are a positive sign for Epsom’s economy. Major retail names like Primark and Oliver Bonas help to drive footfall into town, increasing shopper numbers - which benefits local independents, cafés and service providers nearby. New job opportunities are created, and the growing variety of stores means residents have more reasons to shop and socialise locally instead of travelling further afield.
The mix of large brands and independent businesses gives Epsom a diverse high-street offer, appealing to a range of shoppers and helping to strengthen the town centre’s long-term vitality.
Our moto has always been Buy Local – so let’s support our local businesses, cafés and restaurants and keep Epsom vibrant for generations to come.
🛍 Stay Informed on Local Openings
As more businesses announce openings and new venues come to town, we’ll be keeping you updated right here.
Want to support local businesses or get your own business noticed in Epsom & Ewell? Check out our local business directory and find out how residents are discovering the best local services, shops and experiences right on their doorstep.
