PIZZA delivery giant Domino's is on the hunt for job-creating stores sites in and around Southampton.

The company's search also spells potential windfalls for landlords keen to either let or sell empty commercial premises.

Domino's is looking for three new stores in Southampton's Lordshill, Hedge End and Totton, creating up to 90 jobs.

According to the company, which has 400 stores in the UK, 60 per cent of people live in an area where one of its pizzas cannot be delivered.

Domino's currently has three stores in Southampton Shirley, The Avenue and Bitterne, as well as ones in Eastleigh, Fareham and Wincheser.

Colin Jarrold, Domino's property acquisition manager, said: "We're very keen to open new stores in the Southampton area and become part of another vibrant community.

"Southampton is an ideal location for new stores and our research has shown that there is plenty of demand for the Domino's home delivered pizza service.

"If we do open new stores, it will create between 75 and 90 full and part time jobs for local people so we are keen to talk to anyone who thinks that they have the right kind of properties in the area."

The £11.2m pre-tax profits company, which is listed on AIM, the junior stock market, has seen annual like-for-like sales grow by more than seven per cent, with the share price rising in 12 months from 342p to 528p at one point.

Its largest shareholder is Nigel Wray, a City entrepreneur. He owns nearly 27 per cent of shares (just under 14.2 million).

TO PANEL Specifications for an ideal site are: 1) About 1,000 - 1200 sq. ft.

2) 5.5m frontage/20m minimum depth.

3) Rear access.

4) High visibility on busy roads.

5) Dedicated car parking.

6) Hot food takeaway consent.

7) 15,000 households within a three-mile radius.

New housing preferred.