One of Europe’s largest supermarkets is in the small town of Pitsea in Essex, where a newly refurbished Tesco Extra has regained its title as the UK’s largest Tesco store.

The store originally opened in the 1970s and held the title of the largest supermarket in Europe. 

However, it lost its crown to the Tesco store in Walkden, Manchester. 

But now, following an extensive renovation, the Pitsea store has reclaimed its top spot, The Echo reports.

There are around 2,819 Tesco stores in the UK alone, which make up 27.5% of the market share. And, the Tesco in Pitsea reportedly measures more than 185,500 square feet.

The revamp has transformed both the interior and exterior of the store, consolidating everything onto one floor for improved accessibility. 

Customers can now enjoy a better shopping experience, with new features such as a modern cafe, an expanded clothing section, a Max Spielmann Photo Shop and a Tesco Travel Money counter.

Store manager Amber Amis said: “We are incredibly excited about this extensive refurbishment and hope that our customers will be too. 

“The improvements aim to make the shopping trip not only more convenient but also more enjoyable. 

“We’d like to thank our loyal customers for their patience during the refit and look forward to welcoming them back to the transformed store.”

What’s more, Tesco’s investment in the Pitsea community goes beyond the supermarket revamp. 

The store recently donated £1,500 to Ghyllgrove Primary School, which has helped provide sensory toys, warm clothing for sporting events, breakfast provisions, and emotional support for children and families. 

Melanie White, the school’s senior mental health lead, thanked Tesco for its contributions, saying: “Tesco’s ongoing support has made a real difference in the lives of our students and families. 

“Donations like this are vital in meeting the growing needs of our children and families.”