Essex County Council has announced an expansion in its county-wide social supermarket scheme, which will now see a pop-up shop across various locations in Maldon and the Dengie.

The new Maldon District Social Supermarket is run by Maldon and District CVS. It will run every two weeks, alternating between the United Reformed Churches in both Burnham-on-Crouch and Southminster.

The shop hopes to provide residents with affordable cupboard essentials, toiletries and fresh food, at a fraction of the cost of a regular supermarket.

Dates and times announced so far are as follows:

Southminster United Reformed Church 10.30am to 12pm

• 10 April
• 8 May
• 5 June

Burnham United Reformed Church 1pm to 2.30pm

• 27 March
• 24 April
• 22 May
• 19 June

The Social Supermarket will also be coming the Maldon District Council Offices in the Foyer on Thursday 13 March, 1pm to 2.30pm.

More sessions across the Maldon district will be in place over the next six months.

A shopper browsing at the launch of the new Maldon Social Supermarket. (Credit: Essex County Council)

The official opening comes after successful pilot sessions at the Maldon District Council offices.

Councillor Louise McKinlay, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Communities, Economic Growth and Prosperity said: "I am delighted to open the latest of our community supermarkets, this time in Maldon. The Maldon District Social Supermarket means residents can do their weekly shop for a fraction of the price of other convenience stores and supermarkets.

"The site is our 11th community supermarket to open, with the council committed to delivering 14 by the end of March 2025. This will mean every district in Essex will soon have at least one community supermarket.

"I would like to thank Maldon and District CVS, Maldon District Council and other local partners who have made this possible."

Prices at the Maldon Social Supermarket will start at just £5 for up to 10 items, with free refreshments available. Customers are encouraged to bring their own bags. 

Councillor Richard Siddall, Leader of Maldon District Council, said "I am really pleased to see the continuation of our work with the Maldon and District CVS expanding to the Dengie.

"I would like to thank everyone who is helping the Social Supermarket grow from strength to strength, as it is clear that support like this is so important to our community, and we are delighted to be part of its success."

For further information or to find a community supermarket, click here.