The 4 parts of Greggs trading update everyday sausage roll-lovers should take note of

Newcastle and the North East is the home of Greggs and the region loves a sausage roll or a steak break like nowhere else. Earlier this month, the bakery's HQ posted a trading update and these are the key takeaways for everyday customers.

Greggs was founded by a Mr John Gregg as a single bakery in 1939 in Gosforth. The business was passed down the family before reaching the major expansion it has today.

With winter fast approaching, the bakery chain will be sought out by Geordies needing a festive flavoured hot drink, a bake to warm the soul or a sample of their Christmas menu. More information on all of that is soon to come from Greggs HQ, but here's what you need to know from the latest trading update.

150 new Greggs stores coming

Over the past 12 months, Greggs has opened another 106 shops across the country, combined with 16 closures. New openings included the drive-thru site at Durham railway station. That expansion is set to continue with bosses confirming plans to open another 150 stores over the next year as the Greggs empire continues to expand. Exactly where those stores will be remains to be confirmed, and with the North East already peppered with the chain, the majority will likely not be in our region - although we may see a handful popping up nearby.

New autumn menu

Greggs has also confirmed that the new autumn menu, which includes the pumpkin spiced latte and a chicken & stuffing baguette, is now available. The release added: "Our hot sandwich meal deal, which includes southern-fried potato wedges and any hot or cold drink, is now available in over 1,000 shops. Our great-value pizza deal continues to be popular all day, particularly in the growing evening daypart.

Vegans rejoice

There's also good news for those following a vegan diet. Greggs bosses acknowledge that the group's vegan-friendly options have been "well received" and have added a 'vegan bean & cheeze toastie' and 'vegan south fried chicken-free baguette' to menus. There's likely more to come too.

A move towards pizza

Greggs will also be capitalising on the popularity of its pizza slices with a greater capacity to make the doughy favourite. In September the group commissioned a new automated pizza manufacturing line at their Enfield site. Bosses hope it "will support further growth in this important category as well as lowering production costs".

You can find your nearest Greggs here.