New River Island letting leads flurry of leasing activity at Manchester Arndale

Manchester Arndale has announced a flurry of leasing activity, including a major renewal and upsize for River Island, renewals for The Watch Lab, Thomas Sabo, and Claire’s, as well as welcoming new arrival Tortilla.

British fashion retailer, River Island, has renewed its lease for a five-year term and will occupy a 22,415 sq ft unit expanding its space by an additional 3,686 sq ft.

The brand, known for its stylish and unique clothing and accessories across womenswear, menswear and kidswear, already has a strong presence at Manchester Arndale and has committed to a programme of in-store investments to enhance the customer experience further.

Fast-growing Mexican eatery, Tortilla, will also take a 1,737 sq ft unit on a 10-year lease. Promising to satisfy shoppers’ appetites with its delicious Mexican cuisine it will no doubt become a must-visit destination for those seeking a taste of Mexico in the heart of the city.

Meanwhile, three more retailers have signed lease renewals at the centre, The Watch Lab, has agreed a new 5-year lease, ensuring that visitors will have access to top-notch watch services at Manchester Arndale. Thomas Sabo, the distributor of jewellery, watches, and eyewear, has also signed a new 5-year lease for its 1,381 sq ft unit on New Cannon Street.

Finally, popular accessory and jewellery brand, Claire’s, has also committed its future to the centre after agreeing a new 5-year lease, meaning shoppers will continue to enjoy their wide selection of fashionable accessories and jewellery. Food and beverage operators Sides and Black Sheep Coffee are also amongst the new arrivals.

With other recent lettings to The North Face, Moss, Nike, Dune and Oseyo, these latest arrivals mark Manchester Arndale’s ongoing commitment to securing a “variety of high-quality retailers which meet the evolving preferences of modern consumers”.

Steve Gray, Head of European Retail Asset Management at Global Mutual, commented: “We are excited to strengthen our relationships with existing brands like River Island, Thomas Sabo, Claire’s, and The Watch Lab.

“These agreements underline our commitment to delivering a diverse and vibrant shopping environment for our valued customers and reflect our commitment to maintaining long-lasting and mutually beneficial relationships with retailers.

“We’re also delighted that River Island will be investing in their in-store experience as Manchester Arndale continues to lead the charge in terms of customer experience. New arrival Tortilla also signifies a commitment to aligning our food and beverage offer with the thriving retail scene.”

By Matthew Neville – Senior Correspondent, Bdaily

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