A fresh wave of variety retailers reinvigorates the UK retail scene.
- Flying Tiger Copenhagen remains a beloved high street presence.
- Søstrene Grene expands with interactive store concepts.
- Cult favourite Miniso embarks on an extensive UK expansion.
- Kenji blends Asian culture with British flair, planning further growth.
A new generation of variety retailers is redefining the UK retail landscape, bringing fresh ideas and innovative store concepts. Despite challenges faced by traditional stores like Woolworths and Wilko, these emerging brands are finding success through unique retail experiences and well-crafted strategies.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen, a staple on British high streets, originally opened under the name ‘Tiger’ in 2005 in Basingstoke. Renowned for its vibrant store layout designed as a maze, it tempts shoppers to discover its offerings in arts and crafts, home decor, and more, before reaching the checkout. The retailer, now with around 100 stores across the UK, underwent rebranding in 2016 to Flying Tiger Copenhagen as the original name could not be used in all markets.
Søstrene Grene, a rapidly growing Danish brand, is making swift headway in its UK expansion. Having set a goal to reach 100 stores by 2030, it captivates shoppers with its brightly coloured product array presented against a dark, neutral backdrop. The brand’s charm is enhanced by fictional stories about ‘Anna and Clara,’ which add a unique shopping experience. Its flagship store on Tottenham Court Road offers an interactive element, drawing significant attention on social media for its affordability and unique shopping journey.
Miniso, a Chinese retailer with a vibrant following, is ambitiously growing its physical presence in the UK. With nine locations in key areas such as Oxford Street and the Trafford Centre, Miniso showcases a wide range of plushies, homewares, electronics, and themed travel products. Its innovative Miniso-Go travel store at Paddington station caters specially for travellers and commuters, offering items like neck pillows and travel mugs alongside popular branded merchandise.
Kenji is another rising name in lifestyle retail, creatively fusing Asian culture with British styles. Under new management, the brand is poised for growth, planning at least 10 new stores in the coming year. Managing Director Eddie Shepherd acknowledges the competitive retail market and the need for innovation, asserting that the brand’s unique position is both a strength and a motivator for further expansion.
In an evolving retail environment, these innovative retailers show that variety stores still have a thriving future.
