A confectionery wholesaler is opening a cash and carry selling more than 5,000 brands of sweets to businesses in Kent.

Hancocks will begin trading next month at a 14,000 sq ft site in the Airport Industrial Estate in Rochester, previously home to Comet and Landmark.

The £129 million turnover company deliberately chose the location a stone’s throw away from the Booker cash and carry to help businesses stock up in one trip.

Manager Chris Griffiths, previously based at Hancocks’ store in Liverpool, said: “There is a huge number of local businesses that we can help including convenience stores, confectionery shops, market traders, off licences and general stores.

“In fact any business that retails confectionery will find a range that is larger than ever at Hancocks, coupled with very competitive prices and constant special offers to boost their margins.”

Hancocks chief executive Mark Watson said: “Our research indicates great potential in this area of Kent and the M2 will ensure ease of access to Hancocks Rochester.

“We expect to draw customers from the immediate towns in addition to many coastal areas slightly further afield, where there is great demand for a wide range of confectionery.”

The cash and carry is due to open on Sunday, March 1.

Established in 1962, Hancocks has 20 sites across the UK.