A former chapel in Harlech will open in the summer as a high-end, two-story grocery and convenience shop.

Y Groser Harlech will be located at the Tabernacle chapel and will create at least 12 new job roles and career opportunities for those living locally.

The chapel has been derelict for many years and had become unsound,. It is now undergoing a full restoration and refurbishment project that aims to secure the future of the chapel for years to come.

The store will be over two floors, joined by a staircase and installation of a lift which will be DDA compliant.

There will also be a free ATM machine with 24-hour access as well as a pay point for mobile top ups, gas, electricity and gift cards, and a parcel collection point.

Adrian and Gary Stevenson are the proprietors of the shop. They said: “YGH will be working with the Co-op and a range of Welsh suppliers, stocking all the daily provisions that you would expect from a modern grocery store.

“Harlech’s new grocery store will sell a wide range of local produce and top-brand foods as well as household goods. We will stock fresh and frozen foods, wines, beers, and spirits as well as all larder essentials required to stock your kitchen cupboards. We will provide freshly baked breads and bakery products in store.

“We are also keen to continue to build relationships with local providers of quality meat, fish, diary, and grocery products. We intend to collaborate with local providers to offer retail opportunities and to build a directory of local, high-quality suppliers.”

They added: “We also intend to develop evening events for the local community, helping local businesses to network and develop. This will compliment attendance at as many local events as possible by YGH, with the potential for attendance at pop-up events or fairs, and/or community and local sponsorship opportunities.

“We have knowledge of mentoring and training employees and hope to offer an excellent employment opportunity to the local community, including potential apprenticeship programs for school leavers and/or long-term unemployed.”

Adrian and Gary have Facebook and Instagram accounts and interact regularly with local consumers and businesses.

They added: “We intend to develop a local delivery service. This will initially have a restricted service radius, which will expand as the business grows. Local holiday accommodation parks have already approached us regarding potential delivery services to their guests upon arrival, such as welcome packs.

“We are both driven to support our local community by improving Harlech High Street.

“We both have a broad range of experience and currently manage our own successful businesses in the hospitality, food and beverage and tourism sectors.”