The UK retail sector is experiencing a wave of new store openings and expansions, signalling a positive trend for physical retail. From international brands making their UK debut to established retailers broadening their reach with new concepts, the high street and retail parks are set to welcome a diverse range of businesses.
Key Takeaways
- International womenswear brand Vila opens its first UK store.
- The Designer Rooms launches a new clearance outlet.
- Footasylum expands its presence in Bradford.
- Broadgate welcomes a significant number of new retail and dining brands.
Vila’s UK Debut at The Boulevard
Womenswear retailer Vila, a Danish brand established in 1994, has chosen The Boulevard in Co Down as the location for its very first UK store. The 2,788 sq ft shop is set to create six new jobs and opens this month. Previously, Vila was only available through other retailers like New Look and Next. The Boulevard, which also houses brands such as Kate Spade NI, Under Armour, and Adidas, reported an 8% sales growth and a 7% increase in footfall over the summer, bucking national retail trends. This strategic opening highlights The Boulevard’s appeal as a prime retail destination.
The Designer Rooms Expands with Clearance Store
The Designer Rooms, known for its quality furniture and multiple Scottish stores, has opened a new clearance shop at Braehead retail park in Renfrew. This new venture offers customers discounted items from the popular retailer, which has existing branches in locations including Renfrew, Coatbridge, Livingston, Ayr, Glasgow’s Silverburn Shopping Centre, and Uddingston.
Footasylum Strengthens Bradford Presence
Footasylum, a leading retailer of fashion streetwear and sportswear, is set to open a new store at Bradford Forster Square retail park. The new location, situated in a unit previously occupied by Home Bargains, will be positioned between Boots and Sports Direct. This expansion complements Footasylum’s existing store in Bradford’s city centre at The Broadway shopping centre.
Broadgate Welcomes Diverse New Brands
Broadgate, a major London development, has secured 16,000 sq ft of new retail and dining brands, bringing its new retail and leisure space to 79% let or under offer. Among the new arrivals are Boots Fragrance, the brand’s first fragrance-only boutique; Molton Brown, expanding its presence; NOTTO To Go, offering premium takeaway pasta; Läderach, a Swiss chocolatier; Maison Ladurée, the Parisian patisserie; Moss, a contemporary menswear brand; Strip, a hair removal specialist; Murdock London, a grooming brand; Sandwich Sandwich; and Sushinoya, a sushi and hot dish provider. These new tenants join existing high-profile brands at Broadgate Central, which links Liverpool Street station to Finsbury Avenue Square.
Sources
- Vila: Womenswear retailer chooses Co Down retail spot for first UK store, Belfast Telegraph.
- Retailer opened clearance store at Braehead retail park, Glasgow Times.
- Footasylum to open in Bradford Forster Square retail park, Telegraph and Argus.
- Retailer opened clearance store at Braehead retail park, The Renfrewshire Gazette.
- Broadgate signs 16,000 sq ft of new retail and dining brands, British Land.
