NERF on target with Trafford Palazzo debut

Family leisure concept NERF AX – a collaboration between toy and games group Hasbro and Rocafella Leisure Group – has made its full debut at Manchester’s Trafford Palazzo.

Following a soft launch, the 35,000 sq ft space now open seven days a week, offering four zones of NERF-themed leisure for both children and adults.

The concept also includes a NERF store, selling merchandise, sports equipment, and toys. A food and drink offer is provided by Manchester-based Archie’s, with burgers, waffles, and milkshakes on the menu.

Chris Hayes, Rocafella Leisure’s chief executive officer, said: “The UK hasn’t seen anything like this before, and Trafford Palazzo demonstrated a likened approach to launching debut leisure concepts, so we are delighted to be introducing the first-ever NERF AX here. We have worked exhaustively with our partners Hasbro to curate a first-class venue, one that will provide amazing experiences and memories for every guest.”

Mark Whittaker, executive director of property investment and management at Peel – which owns and manages the scheme – said: “Trafford Palazzo is the UK’s first next generation experience centre, with a tenant line-up that combines leisure and retail in a way that cannot be found anywhere else in the country.

“We are attracting debut concepts like NERF AX because they perfectly fit the Trafford Palazzo profile, which is about blending unique experience with both essential and spur-of-the-moment shopping. NERF AX is providing yet another reason to visit and enjoy all the destination has to offer, and we are in discussions with other retail and leisure concepts to broaden Trafford Palazzo’s offer further still.”

The full launch of NERF AX follows the recent arrival of bowling concept King Pins at Trafford Palazzo for its debut opening. The concept spans 20,000 sq ft and has welcomed over 100,000 customers since its opening in the Summer.

HH Retail and Creative Leisure act for Peel.