Manchester Arndale announces surge of new retailers as capacity hits 95 per cent

Manchester Arndale has announced that Gilly Hicks and Clarks will be moving into part of the former Topshop space, taking two newly created units.

This coincides with the announcement that iFix and Pizza Hut will also be joining the line up while Hollister has recommitted its future to the centre, relocating to the former Disney Store unit.

The new Gilly Hicks store will be home to a range of activewear, loungewear and intimates. This will be Gilly Hicks’ first Manchester store, after it recently expanded its offering to include menswear and a gender-neutral collection. Gilly Hicks’ new store coincides with its sister company Hollister moving to the former Disney Store unit.

From the Abercrombie & Fitch Co. family of brands, Hollister will continue to offer its apparel, fragrances, and accessories to Manchester shoppers from this new location. Meanwhile, popular jewellery and glass wear producer Swarovski has also committed its future to Manchester Arndale after agreeing a new lease.

Footwear brand Clarks will occupy a 3,551 sq ft unit on a 10-year lease and will be bringing its range of footwear spanning formal shoes, boots, sneakers and sandals to the centre. This will be Clarks’ only store in Manchester city centre and will be located in a prime position on New Cannon Street.

Gilly Hicks and Clarks will be joined by other new arrivals iFix and Pizza Hut who will also be adding to Manchester Arndale’s range of retailers and F&B outlets. iFix will provide in-store phone and electronic repair services, while Pizza Hut will be opening a new express takeaway outlet within Manchester Arndale’s Food Court.

These arrivals follow a flurry of other new lettings that include Pure Fashion, who recently committed to a 3,709 sq ft store on a five-year lease, Debenhams.com, Tommy Hilfiger, Pandora, Canada Goose, Kick Game, Carvela and Kurt Geiger with other retailers demonstrating their “confidence” in the scheme by renewing their leases.

These include popular restaurant chain Nando’s who signed a new five-year lease, womenswear brand House of CB who extended its lease for a further three years and fashion footwear specialist, Office, who agreed a new five-year lease re-gear.

This surge of leasing news follows the announcement that Manchester Arndale is now at 95 per cent retail occupancy, confirming its position as one of the premier shopping destinations in the North West.

By Matthew Neville – Correspondent, Bdaily

• Add me on LinkedIn and Twitter to keep up to date
• And follow Bdaily on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn
• Submit press releases to editor@bdaily.co.uk for consideration.

Looking to promote your product/service to SME businesses in your region? Find out how Bdaily can help →