TWENTY jobs have been created following the refurbishment of a supermarket at Lansell Square.
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The 3215 square metre Woolworths store was opened to the public on Wednesday. It includes a pizza bar, bakery, seafood counter, delicatessen and liquor store.
Store manager Michael Farrugia said staff numbers had increased from about 65 to about 100, which included new employees and about 20 transferred positions on top of existing team members.
He said the store was about a third larger in size.
"There is definitely a big plan for Bendigo. The store was an older store and they needed to grow the business in this area," he said.
"We saw it as a great opportunity as part of the Lansell Square redevelopment to make sure the Woolworths has the latest and greatest here as well."
Mr Farrugia said Woolworths presented the Kangaroo Flat Rotary Club and Big Hill Primary School with $1000 grants.
"(It's a way) to build that community spirit and relationship we have with the community. It's of high value to us - looking after the community, especially our local community," he said.
Craig Dodson is a regular customer and gave the new store the tick of approval.
"I live across the road so it's handy for me. I think it looks fantastic. The whole shop, magnificent," he said.
Mr Dodson praised the store's customer service and said he felt like part of the "Woolworths family".
"I am always (at the supermarket) and I know the staff, I have known them for years," he said.
City of Greater Bendigo Mayor said the retail was the second biggest employer in the council municipality.
"The investment is important for Bendigo. Bendigo is a town that is not standing still - it's growing and with it the shopping centres. It is great to see the investment," he said.
"We all get a lot of enjoyment out of shopping, it's a break in our day. It's important that there are good facilities, variety, diversity and competition, and I think it's all here."
Lansell Square is undergoing a $31 million redevelopment.