Inditex takes Metrocentre footprint to over 65,000 sq ft with Bershka signing

Global fashion group Inditex is set to increase its footprint at Gateshead’s Metrocentre to over 65,000 sq ft after signing for a new Bershka store.

Bershka will open a 16,000 sq ft unit in Red Mall, joining other Inditex brands Stradivarius and Zara. The new store will feature a full product range that spans womenswear, menswear, teen clothing, and accessories.

Bershka will join a number of brands within Metrocentre’s fashion lineup, including Urban Outfitters, River Island, Mango, H&M, Flannel, and the upcoming Hollister store. Category sales for fashion were up by 7.4% year-on-year in January at the scheme, with womenswear in particular achieving growth of 9.8% vs last year.

Ben Cox, director at Sovereign Centros from CBRE, asset manager of Metrocentre, said: “The addition of Bershka to Metrocentre underlines the strength of our relationship with Inditex, as well as the success of our fashion proposition, category performance, and the momentum across the scheme. Securing another Inditex brand in such quick succession further highlights Metrocentre as a fashion-forward, best-in-class retail destination, and it’s clear the confidence global brands have in our long-term vision. Red Mall has been shaped as that accessible premium fashion hub, and we are driving consistent sales growth there, increasing footfall and broadening its appeal, while ensuring that consumers across the North East have access to some of the most in-demand, exciting brands on the high street.”

The signing of Bershka follows the recent news that Metrocentre has broken ground on The Crescent, a new 10,000 sq ft hub for independent and emerging brands.