Customers of one of the UK’s biggest retail food groups, Tesco, have strongly criticised its Trowbridge Extra superstore following an extensive refurbishment.

They say there seems to be ‘much less choice’ available, particularly in the fruit and vegetable section, and not as many options available at differing price ranges.

Some say the choice availability, store layout and signage is so poor, they are threatening to shop at other supermarkets.

One customer said: “I've always been a loyal Tesco shopper but the other supermarkets in the area now seem much more appealing.”

The front entrance to the Tesco Extra superstore in County Way, Trowbridge. The front entrance to the Tesco Extra superstore in County Way, Trowbridge. (Image: Trevor Porter)

In posts on a Trowbridge social media site, 90 people commented on the changes at the superstore and not all of them were complimentary.

Stephen Underwood said: “Expensive, the scan as you shop is incredibly infuriating had to spend and extra 30 mins yesterday in the shop to get the whole trolley checked.

“Seems to happen every time now, not going back as experience in there is awful now. Claimed we hadn’t scanned a gift card when we had, the computer said no!”

The new-look Tesco Extra superstore with wide aisles. The new-look Tesco Extra superstore with wide aisles. (Image: Trevor Porter)

Anne Coates said: “Have to agree with a lot of the comments. Top signage not agreeing with what is in the aisles and a lot of the signs indented actually into the aisle so not visible from the central passageway.

“A lot of products I usually bought no longer on the shelves. I did see a couple of "ranging" staff while I was in yesterday,but that was all, and although I was searching for stuff, nobody said can I help you.

“I am disabled and it took me over an hour to do my shop, I was exhausted by the time I got back to my car.

“Thankfully, I use the shop and scan so didn't have to queue at a checkout as well, otherwise think I might have abandoned my trolley.

“I know it’s early days but the management need to get on top of these problems quickly otherwise they are going to lose customers.

“The only thing that stops me going to Sainsbury is that their shop and scan is so much more complicated, even having to check the goods through the machine, but also then have to use your receipt to check yourself out through the automated gate.

“They are making it almost inevitable that people will shop more and more online, or go somewhere where it is easier (and possibly cheaper) to shop.”

The new-look Tesco Extra superstore with wide aisles but some customers have complained about overhead signage.The new-look Tesco Extra superstore with wide aisles but some customers have complained about overhead signage. (Image: Trevor Porter)

Pixi Elizabeth said: “Every time I go in there recently, the shelves are bare, rows and rows of cages all over the place so can't get to products you want.

“The staff are always unapproachable and miserable. I only shop there for certain items otherwise I wouldn't bother.”

Andy Jordan said: “Really poor. I stopped and spoke to the manager about how poor it's been. Fruit and veg really limited, aisles at top of shop really congested. Whole shop does not flow.

“Previous posters have alluded to the increase in convenience foods which is evident. If you’re a vegan or vegetarian, a lifestyle choice, you have loads of options all put in the same place.

“If you are lactose intolerance or a celiac, your fresh food choice is poor and all over the place. No customer engagement prior to the refit. Seriously considering another supermarket.”

Some customers have complained about the Tesco store layout and items moved around. Some customers have complained about the Tesco store layout and items moved around. (Image: Trevor Porter)

A Tesco spokesperson said: “Our Trowbridge Extra store has recently been refurbished to improve the shopping experience for customers.

“This investment included a full re-decoration, upgrades to fridges, the widening of aisle and a completely refreshed Tesco Café.

“We are always looking to provide the best possible facilities and a better experience for our customers and appreciate their feedback.”