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The rollout recommenced with the recent opening of the chain's 62nd store, in Manhattan Beach, California, which attracted 2,600 customers.

Chief executive Tim Mason said: “The neighbourhood showed up in force to show its support. Based on what customers are buying at the Manhattan Beach store, there are going to be a lot of Fresh & Easy barbecues this 4th of July weekend!”

The next store is due to open 9 July in North Las Vegas, and Mason also announced a new Fresh & Easy site in South Los Angeles, where construction work will begin later this month.