Retail Property Deals

Rituals to open at Epsom’s Ashley Centre

4th November 2024

Beauty and wellbeing brand Rituals is set to open a new store at The Ashley Centre in Epsom later this week. Taking a 3,199 sq ft store near the scheme’s entrance and adjacent to GAIL’s Bakery, the brand will offer its signature range of products in a unique fit-out. The news follows the recent announcement that kitchenware brand ProCook has opened at the Ashley Centre, whilst lifestyle brand Oliver Bonas will also arrive at the scheme within the coming weeks. Louisa Butters, head of asset management UK at CBRE Investment Management, said: “Rituals adds a luxury name to the Ashley Centre and is a brand that puts the customer shopping experience first. Its statement fit out and broad appeal is exactly the kind of brand we’re looking for to continue to drive forward our aspirational leasing strategy, and complements the wider destination as we near completion of our extensive centre refurbishment.” This also follows the news that Primark is set to open a 44,000 sq ft store adjacent to the scheme’s central square, which is currently undergoing a £7 million refurbishment. The store is expected to open later in 2025. GCW and Lunson Mitchenall represent the Ashley Centre.

Korean street food brand opens seventh UK restaurant in Chinatown London

1st November 2024

Korean street food brand Bunsik has opened its seventh restaurant in the UK in London’s Chinatown. The brand – which is known for its viral Korean corn dogs and strong social media presence – has taken a 900 sq ft unit at 31 Wardour Street. Since launching in 2021, Bunsik has gained a loyal following through online engagement, racking up over one million likes on TikTok. The new restaurant joins the brand’s other locations in central London and Manchester, with Bunsik set to continue its expansion across the UK via franchise opportunities in 2025. Bunsik’s menu at its Chinatown London location will include items such as the ramyun corn dog, fried kimbap, cup bap, and ddukbokki, as well as halal and vegetarian options. Jae Cho, founder of Bunsik, said, “Opening in Chinatown is a significant milestone for us. The area’s cultural vibrancy is the perfect setting to showcase our evolving brand and menu.” 

Southside Shopping Centre welcomes three new brands

1st November 2024

Southside Shopping Centre in Wandsworth, West London, has welcomed the arrival of three new retailers. Leading the new arrivals is The Pop Up Club, which returns to the scheme after a successful run at Southside last year. The retailer showcases produce from creative independent brands, featuring hand-crafted products including eco-friendly candles, clothing, art, and home decor. Also joining the scheme is Espresso Vibes, which will open a kiosk adjacent to Accessorize. The brand brings a range of specialty coffee from the likes of El Salvador, Brazil, Colombia, and Uganda. Rounding off the new arrivals is London-based Foresthaven. The lifestyle brand will open a 1,554 sq ft store on the scheme’s ground floor in the beginning of November, offering homeware, jewellery, clothing, and furniture. Meanwhile, existing tenants at Southside, The Fragrance Shop, GET Free Books and H&M, are upsizing and growing their presence at the shopping centre. H&M’s new 23,000 sq ft store offers the brands range of womenswear, menswear, and childrenswear as well as an array of homeware and beauty products. The Fragrance Shop has recently expanded its offering following a store makeover. The new and larger 1,200 sq ft store opened in September , providing visitors a greater choice of perfumes alongside an enhanced in-store […]

Jeweller more than doubles its presence at Victoria Leeds

31st October 2024

British jewellery brand Boodles has recommitted to Victoria Leeds after investing into the launch of a new entertainment room and increasing its trading space. The brand – which joined the Leeds scheme in 2022 – has more than doubled the size of its Victoria Quarter store, from 1,200 sq ft to 2,700 sq ft. The entertainment space, dubbed The Rose Garden Suite – is located on the second floor and will offer a setting to host personal experiences such as private dinners or champagne and canapé evenings. This investment and refurbishment of previously unused space reflects Boodles’ continued success at the destination, as scheme owner Redical looks to deliver a world-class retail environment. Jody Wainwright, managing director and a member of the Boodles family, said: “At Boodles, we have always strived to create a deeply personal connection with our customers, and this expansion at Victoria Leeds allows us to take that to the next level. The Rose Garden Suite is a perfect extension of our vision, offering a luxurious setting for our clients to enjoy unforgettable moments.” Rachel Bradburn, leasing director at Victoria Leeds, added: “Boodles’ decision to refurbish and expand its flagship store underscores the strength of Victoria Leeds […]

LCP signs supermarket to Swansea retail park

31st October 2024

LCP, part of M Core, has completed the signing of The Food Warehouse at M Parc Fforestfach in Swansea. The retailer – which is part of Iceland Foods and is one of the UK’s fastest-growing supermarkets – has signed a 10-year lease for a 15,000 sq ft unit. LCP will initially invest in a series of enabling works which are expected to complete by January 2025. These will look to deliver a modern fit out designed to appeal to the local community and provide an enjoyable shopping experience. Doors to The Food Warehouse are expected to open in April 2025. Adam Martin, director and head of LCP’s Bristol Office, said: “We are delighted that The Food Warehouse has decided to open a large format store in Fforestfach. The commitment made is a strong indication of the underlying strength of the local retail catchment. Increasing the diversification of retailers will benefit the local community and visiting shoppers.” Following the recent acquisition of M Parc Fforestfach by Sheet Anchor, also part of M Core, LCP said it is looking forward to announcing other new lettings at the retail park in the near future.

Swiss watchmaker picks Covent Garden for second London boutique

30th October 2024

Swiss watchmaker Longines has selected Covent Garden for the location of its second boutique in London. Opening this autumn at 6 James Street, the 1,000 sq ft store will be fitted out in the brand’s signature style and showcase its full range of timepieces. Longine will join fellow Swatch Group-owned watch brands located in Covent Garden, including Tissot at 7 James Street, and OMEGA at the destination’s Royal Opera House Arcade, which is home to a number of luxury watch and fine jewellery brands. William Oliver, retail leasing director at Shaftesbury Capital, said: “Covent Garden offers an unmatched line-up of premium watch brands right in the heart of the city, so the entrance of Longines is a natural fit. Longines’ distinct character aligns closely with Covent Garden’s, showcasing a commitment to tradition and elegance, whilst remaining at the cutting edge of innovation. We look forward to seeing it deliver this commitment, opening alongside James Street’s roster of retail pioneers.” Matthias Breschan, CEO of Longines, added: “The opening of our second London boutique marks an exciting chapter for Longines in the UK. Covent Garden is the perfect setting for us to display our iconic collections and share our values of elegance,...

Dreams opens “first-of-its-kind” concept store in London

30th October 2024

Dreams has opened a “first-of-its-kind” concept store in London’s East Sheen neighbourhood. The bedding and furniture retailer’s new store spans 4,000 sq ft across two floors, and forms a “significant milestone in the company’s new growth strategy”. In addition to Dreams’ range of products, the store’s features include illuminated lightboxes and floating shelves, two 55-inch digital screens, and an in-store ambiance with the brand’s signature blue walls, mood lighting, and textures. The opening forms part of Dreams’ wider expansion and growth plan, with further store openings expected over the next few months. Jonathan Hirst, CEO of Dreams, said: “The opening of our new concept store in East Sheen demonstrates our dedication to giving customers the best possible experience when shopping for a bed. “We’ve designed a welcoming, premium environment where our bed experts are on hand to guide customers and help them find the perfect bed for their needs. “By bringing this experience to smaller high street locations, we’re making Dreams more accessible, without compromising on quality.”

Cashmere brand secures Covent Garden flagship

30th October 2024

Scottish cashmere brand Kiltane has secured a new flagship store in London’s Covent Garden. The brand – which was founded in Edinburgh in 1997 – has signed a 15-year lease and will occupy 320 sq ft at 38 Floral Street. The unit is located a short walk from Covent Garden market and underground station. Savills acted for Kiltane. Olly Eades, associate in Savills Retail, said: “We are delighted to have secured this beautiful corner location for Kiltane to open their second London store and flagship, underscoring the strength and quality of the brand.” Mark Keane, chief executive officer at Kiltane, added: “Kiltane is the symbol of timeless luxury, woven into the fabric of Edinburgh, and we are thrilled to launch our second London store in Covent Garden.”

Lindt to open flagship store under Piccadilly Lights

30th October 2024

Lindt is set to open a new flagship store in central London under the Piccadilly Lights next year. The chocolatier – which described the store as “the first of its kind in the UK” – will open in the 6,000 sq ft former Gap store at Piccadilly Circus the spring. The Swiss brand currently operates 14 smaller stores and concessions in the UK, including at London Designer Outlet and in Greenwich. Faythe King, D2C and ecommerce director at Lindt & Sprüngli UK & Ireland, said: “We are thrilled to bring the exquisite taste of Lindt Chocolate to the heart of London, offering a unique, enchanting experience for chocolate lovers – something truly unique to the UK. “This marks a significant milestone for Lindt & Sprüngli as we expand our presence in one of the world’s most dynamic and vibrant cities.” Pablo Sueiras, head of retail brand account management at the unit’s landlord, Landsec, said: “The best brands look to invest in the top destinations that command the highest levels of footfall. “Located directly below the world-famous Piccadilly Lights, which attracts millions of visitors from all over the world each year, Lindt’s UK flagship will bring their brand to life with new experiences […]

Wingstop opens fourth site in Manchester

29th October 2024

Wingstop, the American fried chicken chain, has opened its fourth site in Manchester at Parrs Wood Entertainment Centre in East Disbury. The restaurant operator – which is being rolled out in the UK by master franchisee Lemon Pepper Holdings – has opened a 3,400 sq ft site with space for 70 covers. Wingstop at Parrs Wood joins the brand’s other locations in Manchester including restaurants at Piccadilly and the Trafford Centre, as well as its delivery hub in the city. Chris Sherriff, chief executive of Wingstop UK, said: “We’re excited to expand our reach across Manchester. The popularity and success of our current locations prove that Mancunians love our wings. We are on track to reach 60 sites by the end of this year – there is huge momentum, and we are just getting started.” Wingstop is looking to open 200 venues within the next five years. In September, the brand appointed a new head of acquisitions to support its growth across the UK.

UNIQLO to make city debut at Liverpool ONE

29th October 2024

UNIQLO is set to join Liverpool ONE shopping centre, with the Japanese fashion brand taking 25,000 sq ft of space for its first-ever store in Liverpool. Taking a double-height store on Paradise Street, UNIQLO will join a number of other flagship stores including BOSS, JD Sports, and Goldsmiths. The new Liverpool ONE store will house the brand’s range of signature womenswear, menswear and kidswear collections, as well as bags and other accessories. The store will also include features such as self-service checkout areas and dedicated collection points, as well as clothing repair, alteration, and recycling services to help extend the life of UNIQLO clothing. Rob Deacon, director of asset management at Grosvenor, said: “UNIQLO is yet another international fashion powerhouse taking a showcase space on Liverpool ONE’s Paradise Street. Creating a bold, compelling hub of best-in-class international brands has long been our strategy, playing to the needs and wants of our diverse mix of domestic and international visitors, and we’re thrilled to be welcoming Uniqlo to Liverpool for the first time.” The news follows the recent announcement that beauty brand Sephora is set to take 7,500 sq ft of space at Liverpool ONE. Joining it on South John Street will […]

Waterstones becomes 25th brand to recommit to Merry Hill in 2024

28th October 2024

Waterstones has recommitted to Merry Hill, becoming the 25th brand to invest in the Dudley scheme in 2024. The book retailer has updated its shop-fit and added a new shopfront at its two-storey branch near the scheme’s Leisure Quarter. Waterstones’ renewal means tenants have committed to 110,000 sq ft of space at Merry Hill in 2024. Renewals formed more than half of these. Other retailers which have recently recommitted to the scheme include jewellery brands Ernest Jones, H. Samuel, and Pandora, with the latter completing its store fit-out earlier this month. These deals take the total number of renewals at Merry Hill over the last three years to 92. Merry Hill has also welcomed back to the destination the likes of OFFICE, Swarovski, and Accessorize, highlighting its growth in recent years. The scheme is also set to welcome Harvey Norman and XF Gym for their national debuts, as well as the first Sides location outside London and a shopping centre debut for Nike Unite. Alistair Winning, asset manager at Sovereign Centros from CBRE, asset manager of Merry Hill, said: “2024 is shaping up to be another bumper year for Merry Hill. We’re really driving leasing momentum at the centre, welcoming...