Washington's population stood at 67,085 at the 2021 Census, the largest of the towns built as part of the post-war new town programme in the North East.
The Galleries, since 1974
Washington was designated a new town in 1964, built largely on former colliery land to house a target population of 80,000 as coal mining declined in the area. Its shopping centre, the Galleries, opened on 23 July 1974 with the doors cut by Princess Anne — and it made retail history at the time by housing the UK's first-ever Savacentre, the Sainsbury's-owned hypermarket format, since converted back into a standard Sainsbury's.
More than 200 retail units now sit across the centre and its adjoining retail park, anchored by Sainsbury's and Asda. It's very much a building of its 1970s moment — unapologetically brutalist — with newer entrances and an improved atrium added since 2009.
What a shopping centre doesn't stock
A shopping centre built around anchor supermarkets and chain retail isn't set up for bulk confectionery either — a 3kg bulk bag, a vegan-specific range, or a halal-friendly selection for a business order isn't something a Galleries unit typically holds in depth.
Why Washington shoppers order online anyway
For anything beyond a supermarket aisle's worth, ordering online and having it delivered is the more consistent option, whatever day of the week it is.
25,000+ customers, and counting
We've served over 25,000 customers UK-wide, Washington included, with most orders dispatched within 1-2 business days. The range covers pick 'n' mix by the bag and tub, bulk bags from 1kg to 3kg, trade cases for events and businesses, vegan and halal-friendly sweets, retro favourites, and full chocolate ranges from the major brands.
Frequently asked questions
Do you deliver sweets to Washington?
Yes — UK-wide, including Washington, Tyne and Wear, with most orders dispatched in 1-2 business days.
What's the main shopping centre in Washington?
The Galleries, opened in 1974, home to the UK's first-ever Savacentre — built around supermarkets and chain retail, not bulk confectionery.
Can I buy bulk or wholesale sweets in Washington?
Not from a shopping centre unit — we deliver bulk bags, multipacks and trade cases direct to Washington addresses instead.
Browse Pick 'n' Mix and Bulk Bags.