Anticipation builds as Frasers Group unveils its largest store to date at Meadowhall, Sheffield.
- The new store occupies the former 100,000 sq ft Debenhams space, a significant retail development.
- Comprised of a Frasers and Sports Direct, the investment exceeds £10 million.
- Frasers aims to blend luxury and premium offerings to attract diverse demographics.
- Sports Direct brings a dynamic sports shopping experience with interactive features.
The east end of Sheffield’s Meadowhall, once a bustling hub with its Debenhams store, is set for a transformative reopening. Debenhams, which once occupied a sprawling 100,000 sq ft space, able to tempt shoppers since 1990, closed its doors in May 2021. This Wednesday, it will witness a new era as Frasers and Sports Direct combine to revitalise the retail space.
Frasers Group has invested over £10 million into the rejuvenation of this area, now split into a 45,000 sq ft Frasers on the lower floor and a 55,000 sq ft Sports Direct on the upper floor. This development marks Frasers Group’s largest combined store and the 13th concept store since their new format launch in 2021.
Frasers’ presence is set to captivate a broad range of consumers, including a younger demographic with its array of brands such as Boss, Diesel, and Ganni. Renowned denim options from Levi’s and Calvin Klein are available, alongside streetwear from CP Company. The store also houses the largest footwear department in a Frasers store to date, featuring brands like Veja, Ugg, and Timberland.
Aiming to cater to the original House of Fraser audience, homeware from Sofa.com, childrenswear, and beauty offerings remain integral. Further enhancing its appeal, Meadowhall’s Frasers will introduce a Pret-a-Manger café, the first of its kind in-store.
Sports Direct, accessed via an escalator within Frasers, spans 55,000 sq ft featuring prime athletics brands like Nike, Adidas, and Puma. The floor is divided into activity categories, with a highlight on football, instrumental to 40% of sales. Interactive elements, including a terrain tester and a bike workshop, enhance the shopping experience.
The move not only revitalises the retail landscape of Meadowhall but also provides significant employment opportunities. 80 staff members from the former Sports Direct will transition to the new store, and an additional 150 jobs are being created. Frasers Group is strategically expanding with upcoming outlets planned in Liverpool and Dublin, reflecting a commitment to modernising its physical presence.
The ambitious Meadowhall redevelopment by Frasers Group demonstrates an innovative approach to modern retail, blending fashion, luxury, and interactive shopping experiences.
