HJ Foodstores in Pallion and Hendon are sold by owner

HJ Foodstores in Pallion and Hendon are both situated on busy high streets in residential areas of Sunderland. They are well-established in their local communities, with the Villette Road store (Hendon) also offering post office services.

The Pallion store was previously located down the road, moving to its current site in 1990. Both sites offer the potential for further development and modernisation under new ownership.

The stores have been sold through specialist business property adviser Christie & Co as the owner wanted to retire, and hand the reins of the 135-year-old business over to a new owner who will continue operating them as convenience shops.

The business has been acquired by Mr Senthil Duraisamy and Mrs Vishnupriya Duraisamy, who are experienced convenience store retailers from the North East.

Mr Duraisamy said: “We are planning to refit the shops and introduce local produce for customers. We are looking forward to working with the team and we are happy to be retaining all staff members who are the heart of the business.”

Andrew Birnie, Director at Christie & Co who managed the sale, said: “This was an off-market confidential sale process, where we approached a carefully selected list of operators who we felt would be a good fit for the stores.”

The vendor said: “This has been an emotional time to sell and was a huge decision to do so. Andy has advised us on matters over a number of years. He kept in touch with updates, chased people where required and explained matters clearly along the way.”