Belfast’s Victoria Square shopping complex is buzzing with new life as several prominent retailers have recently opened their doors. Luxury beauty brand Space NK and the iconic denim label Levi’s are the latest additions, marking significant moments for the city centre retail hub. This influx of new businesses comes as the centre navigates a period of change, with some established names departing.
Key Takeaways
- Victoria Square has welcomed Space NK and Levi’s, with Levi’s making a return.
- Bershka opened its first Northern Ireland store at the complex.
- The centre continues to attract new brands, particularly those entering the Northern Ireland market for the first time.
- Future openings include global makeup giant Sephora and Mowgli Street Food.
New Additions Boost Victoria Square’s Offering
Luxury beauty retailer Space NK, founded by Belfast-born entrepreneur Nicky Kinnaird, has established its presence on the lower ground level of Victoria Square. This marks a relocation for Kinnaird’s store within the city. The opening on Friday followed closely on the heels of Levi’s, which celebrated its return to the shopping centre just a day prior. Levi’s had previously traded at Victoria Square before its departure in 2018.
The momentum continued with the opening of Bershka’s first Northern Ireland store on November 6. This new 17,500 sq ft unit occupies the Upper Ground Level and showcases the brand’s Bershka, BSK, and Man collections.
A Dynamic Retail Environment
These new openings occur against a backdrop of departures from Victoria Square. Notably, Remus Uomo has moved to a new flagship store on Arthur Street, and Michael Kors closed its doors over the summer. Over the past two years, the centre has seen several other prominent retailers, including Ted Baker, Craghoppers, River Island, H&M, Tessuti, and Apple, cease trading within its premises.
Despite these changes, Victoria Square continues to be an attractive location for new businesses, especially those looking to enter the Northern Ireland market. In addition to the recent openings of Space NK, Levi’s, and Bershka, the centre saw the launch of first Northern Ireland stores for Lego, Astrid & Miyu, and Loake Shoemakers in August and September. Crew Clothing also opened a new shop in June, and Krispy Kreme used Victoria Square to test the Northern Ireland market in March.
Looking ahead, the centre is set to welcome further significant brands. Global makeup retail giant Sephora and Indian restaurant chain Mowgli Street Food have confirmed their intentions to open at Victoria Square next year, signalling continued investment and interest in the Belfast retail landscape.
