Next is significantly expanding its presence at the Bluewater shopping centre, transitioning to a much larger retail space.
- The retail giant will relocate from a 44,600 square foot store to a massive 133,000 square foot site.
- This new location will support Next’s omnichannel strategy, including fashion lines and a café.
- Next is also bringing the US brand Bath and Body Works to a neighbouring store.
- The expansion is part of a broader strategy following a successful sales increase.
Next is making a strategic move by upsizing its store at Bluewater shopping centre. The new store will occupy a 133,000 square foot site which previously housed House of Fraser. This shift significantly increases their retail footprint from their previous 44,600 square foot location.
This expansive space will bolster Next’s omnichannel strategy, integrating traditional retail with online services. The store will feature men’s, women’s, and childrenswear, alongside homeware, enhancing the shopping experience. A café will also be part of the store, providing a comprehensive shopping and leisure destination.
In addition to these changes, Next is introducing Bath and Body Works, the well-known US beauty brand, into a 2,000 square feet store next to its expanded location. This move highlights Next’s initiative to diversify and enrich its product offerings to customers.
The decision to expand comes in the wake of 12 new lettings and several store upsizes within Bluewater. This development trend has included notable brands like Sephora, Pull & Bear, Aesop, and Bershka. Pablo Sueiras, from Landsec, noted that Next is leading retail innovation, drawing consumer interest.
Next’s expansion follows a robust financial performance, reflected in its raised profit guidance after a 7.6% sales increase in its latest quarter, partly driven by early cold weather. This financial upswing underlines the strategic timing of the expansion.
Next’s expanded Bluewater store underscores its commitment to enhancing the retail experience through larger, more versatile shopping spaces.
