Gadget retailer plots high street store expansion

A high street retailer has unveiled an expansion blueprint.

Menkind is planning a “multi-phase” national store rollout.

Bosses say the “ambitious new chapter (will) significantly scale its permanent physical footprint across the country”.

They add the move – which seeks to target units of about 2000sq ft across cities, shopping centres, high streets and retail parks – will allow the gift and gadget retailer to capitalise on “surging consumer demand” across the so-called ‘kidult’ market where adults buy games, toys and collectibles for themselves.

Paul Kraftman, chair of Menkind, whose store estate stretches from Aberdeen to Plymouth, said the move reflects the company’s “growing confidence in the performance of bricks-and-mortar retail”.

He added: “Our confidence in physical retail has never been stronger. 

“Our core bricks-and-mortar operations continue to experience fantastic momentum.

“Transitioning from flexible occupation to permanent leases allows us to invest more heavily in our stores, creating long-term value for our business and landlord partners.

“The kidult category has become a defining part of our business. 

“Customers increasingly visit our stores looking for collectible merchandise and immersive experiences that simply cannot be replicated online.”

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