UNIQLO signs for Kings Cross’ Coal Drops Yard

UNIQLO is set to open at King’s Cross this autumn in what is the most significant retail deal at Coal Drops Yard since it launched in 2018.

The Japanese fashion retailer will occupy 12,000 sq ft over three floors in the former Wolf & Badger store, located at the southern gateway of the shopping destination.

UNIQLO’s arrival supports King’s Cross’ evolving retail and leasing strategy for Coal Drops Yard, which is establishing itself a popular shopping, dining, and leisure destination.

The deal follows two years of record-breaking growth at King’s Cross, with sales increasing year-on-year by 48% and 20% in 2022 and 2023 respectively. Footfall also increased year-on year, by 34% in 2022 and 21% in 2023.

James Rayner, head of retail at King’s Cross, said: “It is no secret that we’ve been working with UNIQLO for some time to find the right opportunity in the right location, so we’re delighted to finally be welcoming this much-loved high street brand to Coal Drops Yard this autumn.

“By its own definition, UNIQLO is ‘made for everyone, everywhere’ and that is an ethos which really resonates with us. This deal supports our retail strategy and cements King’s Cross as somewhere that everyone can come to and enjoy a mix of well-known and affordable brands, as well as some other less known but equally pioneering independent brands.

“Our ambition at King’s Cross is to deliver the best of the British high street and the best of the British side street all in one place – and we think this latest deal does just that.”

Anthea Harries, asset management director at King’s Cross, added: “Like Coal Drops Yard itself, UNIQLO is a highly respected design-led brand. It is testament to our reputation as a globally recognised retail, leisure and F&B destination that this popular fashion retailer has chosen to open its latest London store in King’s Cross and we can’t wait to see it open its doors to customers in the summer.

“Our retail strategy is underpinned by our customers who tell us they want to see more accessible brands like UNIQLO on the estate. For UNIQLO, it is these customers that makes Coal Drops Yard so attractive. We are surrounded by some of the world’s largest office occupiers, including Google, Meta, Universal and Nike, and we are enjoying year-on-year sales and footfall growth, making King’s Cross a unique proposition for the business.”

UNIQLO’s arrival will follow a number of new retail openings at King’s Cross this summer. East London’s Mare Street Market will open in mid-June, whilst Danish homeware retailer Søstrene Grene recently opened at the destination.

The brand will join a roster of other fashion retailers at King’s Cross such as & Other Stories, Paul Smith, Ba&sh, Beyond Retro, and Cos.

King’s Cross is managed by Related Argent.