John Lewis unveiled a new store format today with the opening of its first outlet focused entirely on the home sector.

The new store at Poole, Dorset is a third of the size of a typical department store and will feature the retailer’s home and electrical and home technology ranges, along with an espresso bar and gift list service.

John Lewis believes there is potential for between 20 and 30 such locations if the trial at the edge-of-town site between Poole and Bournemouth proves successful.

The group, which is co-owned by its staff, currently operates 28 John Lewis department stores, as well as 218 Waitrose supermarkets.

The new format responds to research which showed that customers wanted to be able to shop at a John Lewis branch within a 40 minute journey of their home.

Tim Harrison, head of format development, said: “The team has worked incredibly hard to bring our first John Lewis at Home to life in just five months. The assortment in Poole is varied and extensive enough to furnish every room in the house.”