Technology retailer makes UK debut at Southampton’s Westquay

Technology retailer Garmin has opened its first store in the UK at Hammerson’s Westquay shopping centre in Southampton.

The retailer – which specialises in smartwatch and GPS technology – has taken a 2,625 sq ft unit, offering its full range of products in a physical environment for the first time.

Garmin joins a mixture of global, national, and specialist stores alongside a range of leisure and eating out options at Westquay.

Toby Tait, director of asset management at Hammerson, said: “We are thrilled to be partnering with Garmin on its maiden UK store, providing a space for it to bring its full collection of devices into one compelling brand experience for customers. We were quick to understand Garmin’s critical requirement for the right space in the right location to showcase the brand. Garmin boosts an already thriving Southampton destination, with Westquay now fully established as a destination for brands, events and experiences to serve the city and wider region.”

Jon Oliver, managing director at Garmin UK & Ireland, added: “Westquay is a perfect location for us to open our first store. Not only it is down the road from our European headquarters, being so close to the South Coast and New Forest mean that many of our customers come to this area for work and leisure.”

The opening follows the recent news that Hammerson has taken full control of Westquay, after acquiring an additional 50% stake for £135m.