http://www.propertyweek.com/story.asp?sectioncode=36&storycode=3163987

It's strange that they would open a Hugo Boss store on this site as their flagship stores don't even cover 10,000 sq ft never mind the 27,000 sq ft at this location. Are they planning to trade across all 4 floors?
Harvey Nichols on the top 2 floors would be far more suitable - giving it enough room for a decent foodmarket, new cafe and menswear department.

Kutchenhaus are now open at Barton Square at The Trafford Centre.

Radley are opening in the former Whittards unit on the upper Dome at The Trafford Centre, they open on Saturday 5th June

The Manchester Store are open in the former Lacoste unit on upper Peel Avenue at The Trafford Centre.

Faith have closed down on lower Peel Avenue at The Trafford Centre.

Guess are opening in the former Freespirit unit on lower Peel Avenue at The Trafford Centre.

H&M are extending their store again into the former AllSports unit on lower Peel Avenue at The Trafford Centre.

Did Faith go into administration

Is there a Waitrose recently open inside Boots in Manchester Arndale

Yes Faith went into administration.

Boots and Waitrose signed a deal last year which meant they could stock selective products from either companies in either stores.


Waitrose strikes deal to sell products in Boots

Francesca Steele

Shoppers will soon be able to buy Waitrose food with their Boots toiletries under a new alliance between the supermarket chain and the pharmacy announced today.

Both retailers will stock “selective product ranges” in each others’ stores. In return for Boots selling its food, Waitrose will also stock the pharmacy's healthcare and well-being products

http://business.timesonline.co.uk/tol/business/industry_sectors/retailing/article6847308.ece

The Waitrose food area at the Market Street store in Manchester has full Waitrose branding around that area on the ground floor.


Stepping into Boots

14 May 2010

Waitrose has joined with chemist chain Boots to stock a tasty range of Waitrose products, from chilled meals through to fresh and ambient ingredients.

The 1,500-line assortment went live this week at two Boots branches – Woking and Birmingham's Fort Dunlop – with a third Boots shop (Manchester) joining the fold next week.

Five more branches will be rolled out in September as part of a trial running until July 2011.

http://www.johnlewispartnership.co.uk/Display.aspx?MasterId=eca52bb9-813f-4d6b-86c4-12d444d8c04d&NavigationId=1629

Although CP Hart will be closing there store at Deansgate Locks, for Sakura to move into, they will not be leaving Manchester.

They are going to be relocating around the corner to be on Deansgate, they will be moving into the former New Heights/ Sofa Workshop unit at Great Northern. Planning applications are online now.


261-267 Deansgate
Manchester
M3 4EW

LISTED BUILDING CONSENT Installation of individual lettered fascia signage, 1 non-illuminated projecting sign, redecoration of existing shop front and installation of internal stud work walls to facilitate displays

http://www.publicaccess.manchester.gov.uk/publicaccess/tdc/DcApplication/application_detailview.aspx?caseno=L2KGCCBC00700

http://www.cphart.co.uk/

http://i47.tinypic.com/909kie.jpg

http://i46.tinypic.com/rr09bm.jpg

http://i46.tinypic.com/f5awr8.jpg

http://i46.tinypic.com/359fk75.jpg

http://i46.tinypic.com/2r5bvqu.jpg

http://i47.tinypic.com/1tjuyx.jpg

http://i48.tinypic.com/rhk1lc.jpg

The Lowry Outlet Mall continues to benefit from the adjacent Media City development with Gap signing for a significant store. It is to open in mid to late summer.

Next, Mango, Zara and H&M have been viewing units in the past couple of weeks too.

Expect some of the vacant piazza food units converting to retail sometime soon.

US Workwear/Jeans brand - Dickies has also signed for a unit at the Lowry to open over the summer.

Interesting stuff. Time to ditch the tag 'Outlet Mall'?

Possibly this resurgance could end up taking away some of the TC footfall? I know I'd rather walk around the quays on a sunny day.

Interesting stuff. Time to ditch the tag 'Outlet Mall'?

Possibly this resurgance could end up taking away some of the TC footfall? I know I'd rather walk around the quays on a sunny day.

I'm thinking the owners of the mall can't believe their luck.(Mediacity)

Probably going to be some massive changes to the mall over the coming months and years. Goodbye Black and Decker tools, etc.

Some planning apps went in to change some units usage last month. Some of the signs on the windows in the mall have started to call it Lowry Mall with the word outlet dropped. This would be the 3rd name change from the original Manchester Outlet Mall to Designer Outlet @ The Lowry to Lowry Outlet Mall to this final name.

Great news that Gap is opening they have been after them for years and one point were due to move into the large unit used as storage next to the food court.

http://i49.tinypic.com/9fmkac.jpg

http://i48.tinypic.com/333hkyh.jpg

http://www.gapcareers.co.uk/JobSearch.aspx?lid=190&q=&cid=&bid=

gap jobs now online for outlet mall

The words 'Outlet' and 'Mall' are enough to turn people off, IMO. Some snobs think 'bargain basement' or 'noveaux riche' so don't touch the place with a bargepole.

Its a shame they can't call it the 'Lowry Centre'!

Waitrose @ Boots is good, just a shame such a limited product range, but better than no store at all. You get your food packed in Boots bags, which have very poor handles, glad I brought stronger M&S chiller bags. Didn't appear to have stronger or 'Bag for life' type bags on sale, which is a slight let down.

Meanwhile, the Arndale seems to have gone a bit more cycle friendly:


What is Bike Fabulous?
A showcase of fashionable and functional clothing plus accessories.

Products designed for cycling in style and high street brands combined for versatile looks.

When and Where?
Manchester Arndale, Saturday 26th June 2010

Activities and competitions throughout the day, catwalk show at 14:00.

http://www.bikefabulous.org/

Work seems to be happening in unit next to Tesco on Deansgate/Blackfriar's Street corner..am I right in remembering this is to be a bookmakers?

The Money Shop should be opening in half of the unit as it is going to be split up into two units, one facing Deansgate and another facing Blackfriar's Street.

Some signs have gone up on the windows of one of the new retail units in Issy Wharf on Gt. Ancoats St advertising a new coffee shop. Can't find a planning app. yet.

The old Penhaligon's shop in St. Ann's Square has opened as some kind of temporary promo store (if store's the right word) for Muller, of all things...

Beautyworx is opening in the unit next to Loewe on John Dalton Street

Looks like there is going to be a new William Hill underneath the Pannone office block on Deansgate.

in the old pharmacy unit? that's right next door to ladbrokes. the underneath of my works is getting classier and classier!

No, it's not where pharmakarma is/was ..it's further down the same stretch, past the Christian bookshop.

Pandora are opening a new store at The Trafford Centre, jobs are being advertised now.

http://www.pandora.net/uk/?sc_lang=en-GB

Not really retail...preview of the new Visitor info centre, due to open on the 20th June,

uN83DQs0yCo

those touchscreens look mental.

With the new site live, its next form will be a series of Microsoft Surface tables in the upcoming new tourist information centre, which opens in mid-June. Manchester will be the first tourist information centre in Europe to use this technology.
http://www.creativereview.co.uk/feed/may-2010/20/visit-manchester

Looks great but not practical for a tourist info centre where many of the visitors are older. This is the kind of stuff aimed at people who would have used the internet to plan a trip and not use the services of the centre. Still it looks great, I am sure the chavs around piccadilly will love playing in the screens and nick the things you pop on the screen.

They won't be able to market that bus station its situated next to.

It looks great but as said not very practical , cutting edge technology that no one who is older knows how to use ! Will they have a member of staff for every screen to show people how it works ! It looked like the theatre searches didn't even tell you what shows were on at each one !My mum would run a mile from anything like this , probably just pick up a leaflet and be straight out of the door !

Again a different type of retail.


McLaren chooses Manchester for supercar sales

16th June 2010

By James Graham - Business Correspondent

MCLAREN Automotive has chosen Manchester as one of three UK locations to sell its new 200mph supercar.

It has struck a deal with Sytner Group, which has a dealership in Knutsford, to sell the MP4-12C sports car under the McLaren Manchester brand from a new location in the city.

The 12C, which is billed as a Formula 1-style road car, will be priced at around £150,000. It will also be sold by dealers in Birmingham and London.

Jon Crossley, Sytner's managing director for its McLaren franchise in Manchester said: "This announcement is terrific news for my team who have a great understanding of, and appreciation for, the supercar market.

"They are very excited by the new McLaren’s close relationship to motor racing technology and its world-leading carbon innovation. We are really looking forward to introducing the new McLaren to our customer base and being a part of a very exciting future with such a prestigious brand."

McLaren expects the UK, along with the US, to be its biggest market. Initial interest in the UK for the 12C has already exceeded the first year’s allocation.

http://www.thebusinessdesk.com/

Looks like William Hill will be opening in the old Endsleigh unit on Moseley Street

All it seem nowadays, that betting shops are taking up space in town.
Just look at Deansgate, convenience stores/newsagents (tesco/sainsbury/aleefs...), Oxfam, chain restaurants and a wide range of betting shops and cheap booze shops/bars to choose from. Really upmarket!

Its more the combination of betting shops and bars and cheap booze that is worrying.

All Saints has signed up for one of its largest UK stores, comprising 5,800 sq ft of ground and 3,500 sq ft of mezzanine level space at Spinningfields development

^^


Saints a spinner

18 June 2010

http://img295.imageshack.us/img295/4489/allsaintsspinningfields.jpg

Fashion retailer All Saints has signed up for one of its largest UK stores, comprising 5,800 sq ft of ground and 3,500 sq ft of mezzanine level space at Manchester’s Spinningfields development

It has taken a 15-year lease at a base rent rising to £300,000 plus turnover rent. Retailers on the Avenue include Emporio Armani and Armani Collezioni. CWM advised All Saints; Knight Frank advised Spinningfields developer Allied London.

http://www.propertyweek.com/news/

All Saints has signed up for one of its largest UK stores, comprising 5,800 sq ft of ground and 3,500 sq ft of mezzanine level space at Spinningfields development

Good news for Spinningfields but it is not exactly a highend retailer , takes the edge off "The Avenue" being the Bond Street of the North.Top Shop and Dorothy Perkins to follow ..........

^^



http://www.propertyweek.com/news/

Does this mean they will be moving from the store on Market Street or is this an additional store?
I think this could be a bad move for All Saints in Manchester..

That's a big store... Can't work out which unit it will be though

That's a big store... Can't work out which unit it will be though

With no other units of this size on The Avenue, it seems likely that this will be within the refurbished Manchester House. Its a good move for All Saints as they'll be close to House of Fraser and Bridge Street which already has Vivienne Westwood's Anglomania store.

Expect others such as Diesel to be announced soon.

With this shift in Spinningfields' focus to high street brands, it does start to give King Street some hope of regaining its position as the home of luxury retail. Its also important to note that Spinningfields' Armani, DKNY and Hugo Boss are under new licensees, with no indication that King Street store will close. So perhaps there's scope for Giorgio Armani, Armani Exchange and DKNY Jeans stores in the city-centre too.

Fish Spa Craze Splashes into Manchester

A new beauty craze popular with the beauty elite is set to make a splash in the UK as Manchester’s first ever ‘fish spa’ opens at The Trafford Centre.

An organic alternative to standard pedicures, this unique skin treatment massages and removes dead skin from the feet using Garra Rufa - also known as Doctor Fish.

Though it may sound wacky, this innovative concept is hugely popular throughout the Far East and has recently enjoyed a successful transition into the US and Europe with ‘fish spas’ available in Virginia, New York, France and Germany.

During the treatment the fish suck and nibble away the dry skin from the feet leaving you with healthy, rejuvenated skin. These clever fish can also stimulate acupuncture points, helping to regulate the nervous system, relax the body and release fatigue.

Sensation

The fish, which originate from Turkey, will only work on unhealthy or dead skin, so that all healthy skin is left untouched.

Appy Feet was the first spa to bring this concept to the English market, and founder Christina Wright describes how, after experiencing the phenomenon while holidaying in the Far East, she felt compelled to bring the sensation to the UK.

Said Christina: “Having toured the Far East and experienced the fish foot spa in Okinawe, Japan I decided I needed to get involved and made it my mission to bring the concept to England. My idea was to make the fish spa experience available, approachable and affordable to all.

For me, The Trafford Centre store will appeal to all the health-conscious people of the Northwest, who are known as early adopters for any new and intriguing treatment. My plan is to go nationwide with the fish spa concept over the next 12 months – we currently have 18 areas across the country earmarked.”

This is not the first time the Garra Rufa fish have hit the UK headlines, with the BBC featuring a story about a woman forced to travel to Turkey for this treatment in a bid to cure her psoriasis. Christina concludes: “The benefits of the treatment have been scientifically proven, and we want to put an end to people having to travel to feel the benefits of this organic therapy. The treatment is not only for psoriasis sufferers and can have an impact on anybody who suffers with dry skin on both their feet and hands.”

Innovation

Gordon McKinnon, Director of Operations at The Trafford Centre said: “Our customers are amongst the most discerning in the world – and we are confident they will take this amazing fish spa concept to their hearts. It’s such a unique way to treat an age-old problem, and this new addition really adds to our reputation for providing innovation for our customers.”

The Trafford Centre attracts some of the top retail and restaurant brands from around the world, including Molton Brown, Lipsy, Radley, Abercrombie & Fitch’s Hollister, Armani, Calvin Klein, Vivienne Westwood, DKNY, Ted Baker, and eateries including Carluccio’s, KRO Bar, TGI Fridays and Pesto. With the most varied designer shopping outside of London’s Oxford Street, the Centre continues to refresh its retail mix to appeal to the modern shopper.

http://www.traffordcentre.co.uk/news/appyfeet

http://appyfeet.co.uk/content/view/15/16/

Appy Feet opened today (19th June) on Upper Regents Crescent.

Planning applications are now online for the shopfront and advertisments for Mulberry at The Avenue.


New Magistrates Court
Spinningfields
Manchester

Installation of new shopfront, including entrance, 3 no. window boxes, frameless upper level glazing and associated works

http://www.publicaccess.manchester.gov.uk/associateddocs/MCCList1.aspx?093387/FO/2010/C1

Here are artists impressions of how the shopfront will look like

Night
http://img63.imageshack.us/img63/6730/mulberrytheavenuenight.jpg

Day
http://img16.imageshack.us/img16/3245/mulberrytheavenueday.jpg

Also from the renders of the Mulberry shopfront, you can see that each shopfront will have there own projecting sign and flagpole and flag.

I'll eat my hand if Bridge St becomes a shopping destination. Have you seen the place?

^^



http://www.propertyweek.com/news/

Anyone know what that booth thing with the red panels is, on the left handside of the artwork ? It doesn't seem to be the store entrance , but can't work out what it is !

The entrance to the All Saints store is where all them sewing machines are in on that concept drawing.

http://img295.imageshack.us/img295/4489/allsaintsspinningfields.jpg

They are some kiosks and stalls that are going to go down The Avenue itself I think, as seen in these drawings.

http://img188.imageshack.us/img188/6099/theavenue2.jpg

http://img37.imageshack.us/img37/5217/theavenue3.jpg

http://img40.imageshack.us/img40/8404/theavenue4t.jpg

http://img36.imageshack.us/img36/6522/theavenue5.jpg

http://img30.imageshack.us/img30/1368/theavenue6.jpg

http://img37.imageshack.us/img37/3531/theavenue7.jpg

http://img188.imageshack.us/img188/7544/theavenue8.jpg

:ohno:

:ohno:

Two words:

The

Mailbox.


High street brands which need high footfall in a place with no footfall.

I'm not wanting to be negative, and there are a lot of workers around, especially at this time of year, but its seems such a dead end. There's little light and its just not very nice, however the shop fronts turn out. This is an office and courts location. Not shopping.

Pics of the new visitors centre on piccadilly gardens -

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4030/4711609450_7bb8f1188e_b.jpg

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1284/4710956539_1cab0aee59.jpg

very welcoming, very original :ohno:

and a snip at £800,000

From this weeks Crains

http://img51.imageshack.us/img51/7003/afflecks1.jpg
http://img338.imageshack.us/img338/3268/afflecks2.jpg
http://img340.imageshack.us/img340/9427/afflecks3.jpg

Looks like another Currys Megastore is planned to be opening in Greater Manchester soon.
Along with the store planned for Cheetham Hill a new store is now planned for the Currys store at White City Retail Park. A planning applications is now online to install a new mezzanine floor to expand the floorspace and trade it as a the Megastore format.


Currys (Unit 10/J), White City Retail Park, White City Way, Stretford

Insertion of mezzanine floor to create an additional 1487 square metres of retail floor space.

http://planning.trafford.gov.uk/Northgate/PlanningExplorerAA/Generic/StdDetails.aspx?PT=Planning%20Applications%20On-Line&TYPE=PL/PlanningPK.xml&PARAM0=390874&XSLT=/Northgate/PlanningExplorerAA/SiteFiles/Skins/Default_AA/xslt/PL/PLDetails.xslt&FT=Planning%20Application%20Details&PUBLIC=Y&XMLSIDE=/Northgate/PlanningExplorerAA/SiteFiles/Skins/Default_AA/Menus/PL.xml&DAURI=PLANNING

Also another new planning application is up for work to be done at White City Retail Park, no documents are online yet though.


White City Retail Park, Chester Road, Old Trafford

Refurbishment of existing non-food retail units including partial demolition (1248 sq.m ground floor gross floor space and 1075 sq.m. mezzanine floor space) and construction of extensions (746 sq.m. gross floor space) with erection of additional non-food retail unit (880 sq.m. gross floor space) and new mezzanine floor space (1175 sq.m. gross floor space).

http://planning.trafford.gov.uk/Northgate/PlanningExplorerAA/Generic/StdDetails.aspx?PT=Planning%20Applications%20On-Line&TYPE=PL/PlanningPK.xml&PARAM0=391858&XSLT=/Northgate/PlanningExplorerAA/SiteFiles/Skins/Default_AA/xslt/PL/PLDetails.xslt&FT=Planning%20Application%20Details&PUBLIC=Y&XMLSIDE=/Northgate/PlanningExplorerAA/SiteFiles/Skins/Default_AA/Menus/PL.xml&DAURI=PLANNING

I thought the kiosks plan was abandoned , but hope they don't go ahead with it , the concept art is not inspiring . It will be interested to see how the Avenue turns out as it is so dark and uninviting at the moment , almost like an after thought to the scheme ; as if they looked at the plan and said we can stick some retail in there ! It would have been better placed around Hardman Square !

I thought the kiosks plan was abandoned , but hope they don't go ahead with it , the concept art is not inspiring . It will be interested to see how the Avenue turns out as it is so dark and uninviting at the moment , almost like an after thought to the scheme ; as if they looked at the plan and said we can stick some retail in there ! It would have been better placed around Hardman Square !

Ironically Armani could be the loser at Spinningfields. The Avenue is both at a physical and visual lower level to Deansgate and footfall upwards will be limited - pedestrians do not historically ascend to reach destinations. This is especially true if Manchester House is converted to retail, as a retail circulation route is created from Bridge Street and the back of House of Fraser. Add to this the fact that No1 The Avenue has no retail feeder stores from Deansgate and it starts to become a bit of a white elephant no matter how much of a landmark it is.

Allied should be thinking about how the ground floor of the RBS building can swiftly lend itself to retail if it wants to avoid Armani upping sticks very soon after The Avenue's long awaited opening. It may well happen as the King Street stores are among the group's best performing.

Also, another glimmer of hope for King Street - Jack Wills may open at 35, replacing Ralph Lauren as a potential suiter. Recent viewings suggest a requirement for between 5-8,000 sq ft could be satisfied in a move to the larger of the 2 units available.

Signage is now being taken down at Debenhams to reveal the full ground floor glazing hidden behind the old signage for years, plans for the new signage is online here.

http://www.publicaccess.manchester.gov.uk/publicaccess/tdc/DcApplication/application_detailview.aspx?caseno=KJMQJ6BC00900

http://img571.imageshack.us/img571/6806/manchester223.jpg

The Studio has opened within HMV on Market Street and within the Arndale, it is HMV's new area within their stores to sell shirts and clothing.

Madhouse has closed down within the Arndale.

Hoardings are up around the new Guess store in the Arndale, they are opening in the former Principles unit.

http://img28.imageshack.us/img28/6420/manchester230.jpg

Hoardings are also up around the new Bose store in the Arndale, it will be run by Sound of Manchester who already run the Bose store on Deansgate.

http://img97.imageshack.us/img97/513/manchester229.jpg

Hoardings are up around the empty unit next to Poundland, this unit is just getting fitted out to shell specifications.

Hoardings are up around the empty unit next to BHS, this will become the unit for The Hub. http://www.hubretail.co.uk/index.html

High street baker Greggs has secured 12 new stores in the north west in the latest phase of its five-year expansion programme.

The chain plans to open a total of 600 branches, with around 90 of those in the north west generating up to 900 jobs.

They includes 15 new shops in the region during 2010.

Among the 12 in the bag are two in Manchester city centre and one at Manchester University, Prestwich, Altrincham, Glossop, St Annes, Rhyl, Llandudno, Mold, Southport and Kensington in Liverpool.
Each outlet costs around £130,000 to launch.

Greggs already employs more than 1,750 in the north west.

http://menmedia.co.uk/manchestereveningnews/news/business/s/1269619_greggs_announces_new_stores

The unit for Gap at the Lowry Outlet appears to be being fitted out, its on the ground floor at the far end by Suits Direct and Pavers shoes...

http://i50.tinypic.com/2ibkgnb.jpg

http://i45.tinypic.com/2akmxxk.jpg

http://i45.tinypic.com/2wr3hid.jpg

http://i48.tinypic.com/2ajursk.jpg

The old Warehouse shop on King Street is being fitted out

The signage is up for the new Starbucks at Piccadilly Place

Selfridges refurb is well under way. Theme has become industrial with construction worker mannequins and signage.

Tesco is now fitted out on Piccadilly Plaza. Virgin Holidays is opening in Debenhams it is on the ground floor in the corner where the exit to High Street used to be years ago.

This sounds interesting.


UK Store Traffic May Force Re-Location

June 30, 2010

The number of visitors to the Manchester (UK) region’s two Apple retail stores has grown so large that the company’s real estate team is considering closing at least one store, and relocating it inside a huge city center space to better handle the crowds. Real estate sources say Apple has been in on-going talks with leasing agents for the Trafford Centre and Manchester Arndale shopping malls for larger spaces, but have been unable to find any suitable candidates. So Apple’s real estate team has turned to the property manager for a 26,000 square-foot space along New Cathedral Street in city center Manchester, home to Heals Furniture. Heals management admits that the location has been underperforming for several years and will close, reportedly leaving eight years on a 15-year lease. Besides being spacious, the Heals space has a tall, all-glass storefront along a busy pedestrian walkway that would meet Apple’s requirements for being conspicuous and having lots of foot traffic. Other retailers have previously expressed interest in the space, which reportedly has been offered at nearly $900,000 a year. According to sources, Apple has not signed a lease yet. If a lease is finalized, it’s unknown if Apple would close one or both of the existing stores after the new location opens.

http://www.ifoapplestore.com/db/2010/06/30/uk-store-traffic-may-force-re-location/#more-7182

Some things are not correct in the article, but it would certainly change the idea of Harvey Nichols and Hugo Boss opening there.

^^Perfect opportunity really. The store in the Arndale is ridiculous for a city the size of Manchester and always has been.

Space NK has closed in the Trafford Centre , and no notice of reopening , customers are being redirected to other stores. Quite amazing as it is a prime retailer in a great location , and they could not make it work !
Omega are opening a new store in the Dome opposite Selfridges , and next to Beaverbrooks , no date given .

^^Perfect opportunity really. The store in the Arndale is ridiculous for a city the size of Manchester and always has been.

True, however could Apple really fill a 26,000 sq ft store over 4 floors?
Their preferred format is upto 2 floors as customer flows become very difficult to manage otherwise.

Their flagships are usually no more than 20,000 sq ft. So c.9,000 sq ft at ground and basement levels would be about right.

The upper 2 floors would still be a better fit for Harvey Nichols.

Apple could easily fit within 26,000 sq ft space at New Cathedral Street I think. Apple's flagship stores like Regents Street and their new store at Covent Gardens has office space for Apple so the remainder of the space could be used for that possibly.

Space NK has closed in the Trafford Centre , and no notice of reopening , customers are being redirected to other stores. Quite amazing as it is a prime retailer in a great location , and they could not make it work !
Omega are opening a new store in the Dome opposite Selfridges , and next to Beaverbrooks , no date given .

The lease for Space NK has been on the market for well over a year now and has only now just become under offer. I think that this will turn out to be the store where Pandora will open in.

So Omega are opening in the former Birthdays unit then, thats good finally getting that unit relet and to another high end tennant, now the former Faith unit needs to be relet.

Is good to see so many new store openings/ relocation/ extensions over the last few months at The Trafford Centre seeing as there has been so many empty unit there over the last year.

The lease for Space NK has been on the market for well over a year now and has only now just become under offer. I think that this will turn out to be the store where Pandora will open in.

So Omega are opening in the former Birthdays unit then, thats good finally getting that unit relet and to another high end tennant, now the former Faith unit needs to be relet.

Is good to see so many new store openings/ relocation/ extensions over the last few months at The Trafford Centre seeing as there has been so many empty unit there over the last year.

The Trafford Centre are very clever at covering up shut-down units. They fool everyone by putting banners which make it look like a shop is opening soon, instead of just putting shutters down like they probably would in the city centre.

^^ Ya thats true VoldemortBlack. There are alot of clever shop coverings from basic banners for the Trafford Centre itself or ones advertising stores within the centre, but at least now a fair few of them are starting to get filled again with actual stores.

Licensing application in today's Evening News for Sainsburys at 22 Cross Street

The long rumoured Sainsburys there, thanks neil. Sainsburys will probably do well there, what with the competition with Waitrose at Boots and M&S as well, seems like a good location for them.

Here is the license.


Sainsbury's Supermarket

Sainsbury's Supermarket, 22 Cross Street, Manchester, M2 7AE

Application Type

Premises Licence (New)

Proposal

Proposed trading hours for the supply of alcohol for consumption off the premises only:
Mon to Sun 0600 to 0000

Proposed trading hours for the provision of late night refreshment:
Mon to Sun 2300 to 0000

Proposed opening hours for the premises:
Mon to Sun 0001 to 0000 (24 hour)

http://www.manchester.gov.uk/info/500047/city_centre/610/city_centre-current_licence_applications/14

Manchester Victoria Station is to get a Mace Convenience Store, the licensing apps. are taped to the windows, but not online? How come?

Where in Vic is the Mace going? Opposite the leather place on the corner?

Where in Vic is the Mace going? Opposite the leather place on the corner?

Possibly the corner unit, but that was proposed for the 'Cyclepoint' centre for Manchester & Salford. Paper notices have also been placed in the old 'The Good Life' small shop, to confuse matters.

The license for Mace was online a while back, the consultation ran out for it, they are opening in the corner unit opposite Cathedral Gardens, planning application is online for them here.


1 Victoria Station Approach
Manchester
M3 1NZ

Conversion alteration and change of use of vacant units to form combined retail shop and cafe, with ancillary hot food takeaway use (Use Class sui generis), night pay window and ATM

http://www.publicaccess.manchester.gov.uk/publicaccess/tdc/DcApplication/application_detailview.aspx?caseno=KZFGCBBC6K000

Here is the license



Mace Convenience Store

Mace Convenience Store, Victoria Station Approach, Manchester, M3 1PB

Application Type
Premises Licence (New)

Proposal Proposed trading hours for the supply of alcohol for consumption off the premises only:
Mon to Sun 0001 to 0000

Proposed opening hours for the premises:
Mon to Sun 0001 to 0000

The Bose and Guess stores are now open in the Arndale but Lush has closed their Arndale store

The Bose and Guess stores are now open in the Arndale but Lush has closed their Arndale store

I thought Lush was just having a refurb?

I thought Lush was just having a refurb?

Went past it yesterday, it is just a refurb, there's signage in the windows about it...

Hi new here, been reading this forum for ages so thought id join-
Heard a rumour that the site of the vue cinema at pilsworth in bury is gonna be an Ikea as the cinema is moving to the town centre-cant see this as a good site but anyone heard anything about this?

I also heard rumours of a new shops up there, however it was Primark not Ikea that are supposedly moving in.

The IKEA rumour is a little dated. IKEA did look at Pilsworth prior to making the decision to plump for Stockport and then Ashton. I've not heard anything about them looking at the site since.

As to Primark, just can't see it. They are in the process of opening there biggest store in Greater Manchester (outside of the city centre) in Bury. Would seem strange to have another store so close by.

Cath Kidston at Selfridges Manchester Exchange

Designer Cath Kidston opened up a tiny shop in London’s Holland Park in 1993, selling vintage fabrics, wallpaper and brightly painted junk furniture.

Her nostalgic re-working of the traditional English country house style has since extended to women’s fashion and accessories, as well as the launch of Cath Kids in 2008. Quirky and practical designs and distinctive floral prints epitomise the Cath Kidston look.

Selfridges Manchester Exchange is pleased to announce the opening of a fourth Selfridges Cath Kidston concession in store on 8 July.

Join the team for the opening on the lower ground floor and with every purchase over £40 or more you will receive a complimentary cowboy print eco bag and a limited edition badge.

http://www.selfridges.com/en/Whats-On/Latest-news/News/Cath-Kidston-Launch_Cath%20Kidston%20Launch/?brdcrmb_trail=

http://www.cathkidston.co.uk/

Church Street Market reborn

We chat to some of the traders of the redeveloped city centre market to find out how they're settling into their new premises

08/07/2010 12:04:57

It may not have been the prettiest of places, but the old Church Street Market was certainly loved. Steeped in heritage and character, the market was one of the city centre's most historic. However, this once bustling commercial centre had in recent years diminished to a run-down shack housing five stalls. It was a relic of a bygone time, neglected amidst the redevelopment of the surrounding Northern Quarter and Arndale Centre.

The ramshackle stalls were flattened in January 2010 to gasps of dismay from the local area. The gasps quickly changed to cheers however when news spread that the market was not disappearing, but being reborn in a shiny new home more fitting to its place at the heart of a modern city centre.

In March 2010, Church Street Market was brought up-to-date with a £300,000 redevelopment project, which saw the tired outdoor street market replaced by a permanent, high-roofed steel and glass structure with space for 11 stalls. Existing stall holders have been re-homed in the new premises, and new faces have joined the original market community.

One of the most long-established and best-loved of Church Street's stalls is the second hand book shop, which has been happily rehoused in a corner plot at the end of the row. Eddy Hopkins has been selling rare comics and second hand books on the site for over 40 years, and despite the left-bank character of the former stall, which fitted into the bohemian nature of the Northern Quarter, Eddy is optimistic about his new premises.

"Some say they like the old place because it had a certain amount of character, and some say they like the new place because stuff is easier to see. So it's six of one and half a dozen of the other."

Eddy is enjoying the space afforded by his new premises however, and the opportunity to increase his store to offer more books. "It's a bit airier, more spacious, and there's more room for taller bookshelves. So it's better in that respect."

Another of the market's original stalls is the family-run fruit and veg outlet, McCalls. Managed today by brothers Tony and Mark, the business has been in existence for a century, with five different generations of the family steering the stall though decades of change in Manchester. As testament to this impressive history, canvas prints decorate the walls of the new premises, depicting different generations of the McCall family selling fruit and veg from various incarnations of their market stall.

"That's our grandfather in 1926, when he was 16," says Tony, pointing proudly at a black and white image of a smartly dressed lad presiding over a fruit and veg cart. "He was working for his mum on Back Piccadilly."

Speaking of the new, more spacious premises, Tony explains how the extra space has made things easier for their customers. "It's great, really good. It's enabled us to compact everything and make it easier for everyone – people with buggies, disabled people, everyone."

The brothers have also used the extra space to diversify their product range, and now stock Afro-Caribbean and exotic foods – something which Tony says has attracted a more diverse customer base.

When asked about the potential competition from the neighbouring Co-op and Tesco mini supermarkets, Tony is bullishly unfazed. "Well if they see that something's going well they want a piece of the action," he laughs. "We've been here since 1926, so they've got to be following our lead."

Sadly, the iconic Church Street record shop did not make the transformation to the new market building, with the owner taking the redevelopment as an opportunity to retire. But new traders have jumped at the chance to open stalls in the new-look market, with a couple of fashion stalls, a pet store and a fresh food outlet joining the Church Street veterans.

'The Farm' is owned by Richard 'the foodie farmer' Morphett, who has been trading on the new Church Street premises for around eight weeks. A regular at regional farmers' markets, Richard has made Church Street a permanent home, from which he sells home-made ice cream, fresh meat, hog roast, sandwiches, and home-made soups from Cowside Farm in Hebden Bridge. The stall is enjoying a roaring trade, and offers a great new eaterie for shoppers and workers looking for lunch-on-the-go.

So it's with a new lease of life and a fresh, modern look that Church Street Market looks forward to the future. A future which, thanks to its redevelopment, now looks likely to be just as rich as its past.

http://www.manchesterconfidential.co.uk/Health-and-Beauty/Shopping/Church-Street-Market-reborn_11582.asp

http://www.selfridges.com/en/Whats-On/Latest-news/News/Cath-Kidston-Launch_Cath%20Kidston%20Launch/?brdcrmb_trail=

http://www.cathkidston.co.uk/

Pedlars gifts and homewares is also open next to the Cath Kidston concession , it is looking similar to the Trafford Centre Selfridges now

The new GAP unit now being fitted out at the Lowry Mall..should be open in September


http://i581.photobucket.com/albums/ss255/trakkie/P7110338.jpg

Huge retail update today

Starbucks is now open at Piccadilly Place.

Tesco Express are now open at City Tower.

Shout are now open in there new location opposite Clas Ohlson in the Arndale

Argos in the Arndale has been completly refurbished to their new style of stores.

Yours are opening a new store in the Arndale soon, job applications are online.

http://www.yoursclothing.co.uk

A new shopfront has been installed in the former Envy unit in the Arndale, no new tennant for the space yet though.

Looks like Shakeaway in the Arndale will finally open soon, job applications for the store say it should open in mid August.

Lush reopen in the Arndale on Wednesday 21st July.

Topshop & Topman in the Arndale is getting a full store refurbishment, parts of the store are closed off, but it still remains open should be complete and reopen fully in mid August.

http://img413.imageshack.us/img413/2756/manchester264.jpg

http://img807.imageshack.us/img807/1592/manchester266.jpg

New signage is now starting to go up at Debenhams, Virgin Holidays is now open on the ground floor.

http://img638.imageshack.us/img638/173/manchester272.jpg

Oska Menswear are opening next to Entertainment Trader on High Street.

Legends Memorabilia has closed at Royal Exchange Arcade, they have apparently relocated though.

Work has now started on the long empty North American Travel Agency shop on Deansgate next to Tesco Express, the store will be split into two unit, one will be for The Money Shop apparently.

Waterstones on Deansgate has been fully refurbished and Paperchase has opened on the ground floor of the store.

http://img651.imageshack.us/img651/4510/manchester237.jpg

The old Warehouse shop on King Street is being fitted out

http://img806.imageshack.us/img806/8959/manchester255.jpg

Also Kuyichi is now being fitted out next door on King Street, looks like they will be open in August.

http://img31.imageshack.us/img31/4029/manchester251.jpg

Beautyworx is opening in the unit next to Loewe on John Dalton Street

http://img824.imageshack.us/img824/4250/manchester249.jpg

The new WHSmith store underneath 3 Hardman Street at Spinningfields is now starting to get fitted out.

Looks like fitting out for the store at The Avenue is now in full swing with Armani already being fitted out. It now looks like the block that will have Mulberry, Flannels and DKNY and more, is starting to get some work done to it. The banners have been taken down around the stores and black boards have been left with visible work going on in some of the units.

http://img28.imageshack.us/img28/6140/manchester241.jpg

http://img408.imageshack.us/img408/259/manchester240.jpg

http://img682.imageshack.us/img682/4751/manchester243.jpg

http://img824.imageshack.us/img824/4454/manchester247.jpg

CP Hart have closed their showroom at Deansgate Locks and relocated to their new store on Deansgate in the former Sofa Workshop unit.

Dickies is now open at Lowry Outlet Mall.

http://www.dickiesworkwear.com/

Excellent update!

The new GAP unit now being fitted out at the Lowry Mall..should be open in September


http://i581.photobucket.com/albums/ss255/trakkie/P7110338.jpg

Guess this GAP is not what we hoping for in a turn around for the Lowry. GAP Outlet, as far as I'm aware is not the same as the full store - it is a factory outlet store running limited lines, end of line, and past seasons stock, for less cost.

Guess this GAP is not what we hoping for in a turn around for the Lowry. GAP Outlet, as far as I'm aware is not the same as the full store - it is a factory outlet store running limited lines, end of line, and past seasons stock, for less cost.

This store has had the doors blocked in and the suits direct store is being kocked through to it. Suits Direct has now reopened as Suits You in the store on the corner which was a clothing store run by the mall. The perfume shop is having a closing down sale.

Guess this GAP is not what we hoping for in a turn around for the Lowry. GAP Outlet, as far as I'm aware is not the same as the full store - it is a factory outlet store running limited lines, end of line, and past seasons stock, for less cost.

This is a bit of a Red Hering. Gap don't really operate outlet stores and Emerson are planning to relaunch the 'Lowry Mall' around Christmas.

Arcadia, Zara and H&M have all been looking at the mall in recent months so it wouldn't be surprising to see some of the lesser known brands disappearing as their leases come up for review.

Expect Austin Reed, Flannels, Gap, M&S, Molton Brown, Whistles etc to improve their offerings as Media City goes live.

This is a bit of a Red Hering. Gap don't really operate outlet stores and Emerson are planning to relaunch the 'Lowry Mall' around Christmas.

Arcadia, Zara and H&M have all been looking at the mall in recent months so it wouldn't be surprising to see some of the lesser known brands disappearing as their leases come up for review.

Expect Austin Reed, Flannels, Gap, M&S, Molton Brown, Whistles etc to improve their offerings as Media City goes live.

The Lowry Mall brand has been appearing on marketing on the windows since late last year and is now on the windows on the new waterfront offices.

Shoppers to mind the Gap at the Lowry Mall

July 15, 2010

Clothing retailer GAP Outlet has announced it will be opening at the Lowry Outlet Mall in Salford Quays in September.

The signing is seen as a boost for the Mall and an indication of the growing confidence in the retail sector.

Centre manager Rob Hallworth said: “GAP is a destination retailer, appealing to a wide section of people, which we believe will attract shoppers from across the north west.”

The GAP Outlet will occupy a ground floor unit.

Other recent signings have included men's fashion brand Dickies and jewellery store Bijoux.

Mr Hallworth said: “Menswear has performed extremely well for us in the last 12 months and Dickies is a great name to add to our growing portfolio in this category.

“We’ve had a strong start to 2010 and these new retailers really lay the foundations for what we hope will be an even stronger Q3 and Q4.

“GAP Outlet in particular is ideally suited for the imminent arrival of businesses and residents to MediacityUK.

“We also have a dynamic activity programme planned for the rest of the year which will be underpinned with new TV and radio advertising as well as PR support.”

http://menmedia.co.uk/manchestereveningnews/news/business/s/1301941_shoppers_to_mind_the_gap_at_the_lowry_mall

Citybranch and Development Securities to hold public exhibition for £35m development plans for The Square, Hale Barns, Trafford

http://img713.imageshack.us/img713/4826/thesquarehalebarns.jpg

9:00am Thursday 15th July 2010

Exclusive By Chris Griffin »

A NEW £35m scheme has been drawn up to redevelop the Square shopping centre in Hale Barns - and the developers hope the community will back it.

Developers have unveiled proposals which they believe will finally lead to the run-down centre being revamped.

Altrincham-based Citybranch has worked with leading property and investment company, Development Securities, to improve a scheme that was granted planning permission in September 2008, after a bitter two-year planning battle.

Those plans included included a Waitrose supermarket, 51 flats and and 14 shops This development was shelved, though, just three months later when Waitrose pulled out in favour of opening a store that is now operating in Broadheath.

Residents - spearheaded by the group Hale Barns Residents' Response - waged a high-profile campaign to block that development, claiming it was too large for the area.

The revised scaled-down version aims to meet concerns about the development's size, while the architects also believe its more traditional appearance is more in character with the affluent village. Its features include gables, pitched roofs and traditional detailing.

Only 24 apartments are now being proposed, along with space for up to 10 shops.

Up-market regional shopping chain Booths would run an 'anchor' supermarket with a cafe.

Ahead of submitting a planning application, the developers are inviting residents to view the scheme at a public exhibition next week.

Paul Patenall, director of Development Securities, said: “As one of the country’s most experienced development companies, we believe that we can significantly improve the existing plans, delivering a scheme that local people can support and take pride in.

“The design will be more in keeping with the architecture in Hale Barns, reflecting the strong local character which is prevalent in many of the buildings throughout the village.

“In terms of scale, the total size of the retail units has been reduced by around 20 per cent and there will be half the number of apartments. These will all be designed to the highest specification and to appeal to professionals and families.

“We are confident that our new proposals will address the concerns previously raised by local people and provide a new centre for Hale Barns that is both sustainable and architecturally appealing.

"We hope that people will take the opportunity to come and see our plans and provide feedback.”

No-one from HBRR was available to comment as Messenger went to press.

If Trafford Council approves the new application, Development Securities aims to start work in 2011 with a view to the scheme being completed during 2012.

* The public exhibition will be held from 9.30am – 7pm on July 23, at the Square Shopping Centre, Hale Barns.

http://www.messengernewspapers.co.uk/news/8272296.__35m_makeover_for_Hale_Barns_shopping_centre/

Had a long overdue walk around the city-centre today and...
Asbestos removal taking place at 100 King Steet (old HSBC)

According to staff, the current Armani stores on King Street will remain open during the first few months of 1 The Avenue.

LK Bennett will not be relocating from New Cathedral Street to The Avenue - it will be a second store.

Work taking place at the back of Armani's new store - possible extension?

Quite a few people looking around the old Flannels store at 55 King Street.

Work taking place at the back of Armani's new store - possible extension?

Photo showing the black hoardings around the back of the new Armani at Spinningfields from my update earlier this week.

http://img824.imageshack.us/img824/4454/manchester247.jpg

I think it could be for the outdoor seating, that a planning application went in for a few weeks back along with the new glass secondary entrance for the basement unit of 1 The Avenue.


1 The Avenue
Spinningfields
Manchester

Construction of a new fire escape and secondary entrance enclosure to the basement of 1 The Avenue, Spinningfields, and the construction of permanent fixtures, namely four fixed parasols and bamboo planters, within the outdoor seating area, and associated works

http://www.publicaccess.manchester.gov.uk/associateddocs/MCCList1.aspx?093285/FO/2010/C1


According to staff, the current Armani stores on King Street will remain open during the first few months of 1 The Avenue.

LK Bennett will not be relocating from New Cathedral Street to The Avenue - it will be a second store.

Quite a few people looking around the old Flannels store at 55 King Street.

Thanks for the update Vision.

It would not surprise me if Armani stayed open on King Street for a bit after they open at Spinningfields, they will probably slowly move over to Spinningfields by the sounds of things, so that the customers know about the new store.

Also good news that LK Bennett is not a relocation and is a second store for Manchester, as we know that Kurt Geiger is going to be relocating from St Anns Square to The Avenue.

And regarding the empty Flannels unit on King Street, the unit has been on the market for a bit now, so is good to see some possible activity on the unit.

Reeds Rains on Whitworth Street West has been refurbished to Reeds Rains City Living, they have also opened a City Living office in Salford Quays at Ancourage Quay.

Archies Fast Food & Shakes has now opened next to the Cornerhouse on Oxford Road.

[QUOTE=flange;60461157]Photo showing the black hoardings around the back of the new Armani at Spinningfields from my update earlier this week.



I think it could be for the outdoor seating, that a planning application went in for a few weeks back along with the new glass secondary entrance for the basement unit of 1 The Avenue.



http://www.publicaccess.manchester.gov.uk/associateddocs/MCCList1.aspx?093285/FO/2010/C1

Thanks Flange - All makes sense now. However, does this mean the roof terrace on the 1st floor is redundant or could this be set aside for an Armani Cafe?

It could be set aside yes, or it could just become a roof terrace for the offices in the building, hope it does not though, would be good to have the roof terrace there for a restaurant or Armani Caffe if they do open there.

I think Armani Caffe would be perfect for the building though, as then the Armani store can carry on into the Caffe, you never know they could use both floors for the cafe and have the roof terrace and the new outdoor seating area as well.

I always thought an Armani Cafe would do really well in Manchester ! Lets hope they think the same and it is a suprise addition to the store !

The planning applications for the new shopfronts and signages of the stores at The Avenue are now starting to go online, we have already had Mulberry and now we have got the planning application for Oliver Sweeney.


Unit G21
3 Hardman Street
Spinningfields
Manchester
M3 3HF

New shopfront at 3 Hardman Street comprising a new pedestrian entrance, frameless lower and upper level exterior glazing panels with steel tube structural ties and associated works

http://www.publicaccess.manchester.gov.uk/associateddocs/MCCList1.aspx?093699/FO/2010/C1

Here is how the shopfront is proposed to look like.

http://img85.imageshack.us/img85/3153/oliversweeneytheavenue.jpg

Also job applications are now being advertised on the Oliver Sweeney website for their new Manchester store.

http://www.oliversweeney.com/contacts/

Kurt Geiger will be opening two new stores in Manchester over the next few months, one will be at The Avenue and the other store will be at The Trafford Centre.

Job applications are online for the new standalone store at The Trafford Centre here.

http://www.retailchoice.com/JobSearch/JobDetails.aspx?JobId=47997948&Keywords=new+AND+store&Market=17&Industry=51&LTxt=Manchester%2c+Lancashire&Radius=2&LIds1=fr%2cCEs%2cCE4%2cCI0%2cCK2%2cCMi%2cCNw%2cCOT%2cCQC%2cCQW%2cCRV%2cCVW%2cCVX%2cCWw%2cCZs&LIds2=dc&LIds6=Dte%2cB%2cC%2cD%2cE%2cF%2cG%2cH%2cI%2cJ%2cND%2cZP%2cZR%2cZS%2cZW%2cZX%2cZY%2cZZ%2cZa%2cZb%2cZc%2cZd%2cZe%2cgz%2cg2%2cg8%2cg9%2cg+%2cg_%2chA%2chB%2chC%2chD%2cnE%2cnL%2cnM%2cnN&clid=2027&cltypeid=1&clName=Manchester

http://www.retailchoice.com/JobSearch/JobDetails.aspx?JobId=47999421&Keywords=new+AND+store&Market=17&Industry=51&LTxt=Manchester%2c+Lancashire&Radius=2&LIds1=fr%2cCEs%2cCE4%2cCI0%2cCK2%2cCMi%2cCNw%2cCOT%2cCQC%2cCQW%2cCRV%2cCVW%2cCVX%2cCWw%2cCZs&LIds2=dc&LIds6=Dte%2cB%2cC%2cD%2cE%2cF%2cG%2cH%2cI%2cJ%2cND%2cZP%2cZR%2cZS%2cZW%2cZX%2cZY%2cZZ%2cZa%2cZb%2cZc%2cZd%2cZe%2cgz%2cg2%2cg8%2cg9%2cg+%2cg_%2chA%2chB%2chC%2chD%2cnE%2cnL%2cnM%2cnN&clid=2027&cltypeid=1&clName=Manchester

Gap now appear to have also taken over the as was Suits Direct unit at the Lowry Mall this will effectively now double the floor space when it opens in Sept

http://i581.photobucket.com/albums/ss255/trakkie/P7110338-1.jpg

http://i581.photobucket.com/albums/ss255/trakkie/P7180378.jpg

http://i581.photobucket.com/albums/ss255/trakkie/P7180379.jpg

Thanks for more photos WingTips, uklad posted about it the other day, Suit Direct has not closed in the mall though they have relocated and reopened.

This store has had the doors blocked in and the suits direct store is being kocked through to it. Suits Direct has now reopened as Suits You in the store on the corner which was a clothing store run by the mall. The perfume shop is having a closing down sale.

Sleuth exclusive: Rags to Bitches to close

Iconic Northern Quarter store leaves the streets for the internet

16/07/2010 09:17:52

Sleuth is a sideways glance at the city every week. We give £25 for every story/rumour and piece of absurdity you find for us to print. Sometimes we even do proper news stories in Sleuth. We ask for the money back if any legal action follows.

Rags to Bitches to close
Whenever Sleuth takes guests around the city and we pass Rags to Bitches on Tib Street, people from all over the globe want to stop and go in. The fashions (often own brand), the bazaar-like interior, the carefully chosen vintage clobber are a magnet for clever shoppers. From 25 July that will cease. Rags to Bitches is to close. The business is going online. “Emotionally this is a very sad thing for us,” says co-owner Simon Buckley, “business-wise it’s the only thing to do. Each year it costs me £40,000 just to get the doors open. The rates have risen too, and we don’t get enough people up Tib Street.”

Awards turn to rags
The weird thing is that Rags to Bitches seems to have won more awards and had more press than just about any other shop in the North West, nationally and internationally. “We’ve calculated that we’d have had to pay a PR company tens of thousands of pounds to get the coverage we’ve gained,” says Buckley. “Unfortunately this doesn’t bring enough people to the door. Look at the big names like M&S and other high street retailers, they’re increasing profits. It appears that shoppers in a recession are going for big, trusted brands. Maybe it’s the way Manchester people shop too. It’s a shame that most people (and they’re Mancs) who come to the city centre don’t stray off the beaten track. We have lots of really loyal customers, but we get very little passing trade. I’ve been told by many commentators that if we’d been in other British cities we’d have been trebling our income, given the publicity.”

Sleuth’s implications for the city’s retail
So what, you might say, a shop has closed? Big deal. But Sleuth thinks the loss of Rags to Bitches is a mini-tragedy, symbolically as much as anything else. The store was a flagship for the physical experience of shopping in the city, a beacon of individuality with its dress-making and other events. Sleuth reckons its loss dilutes the city shopping experience, as would the loss of any nationally recognised store in the city. It makes Sleuth wonder what we are doing wrong in Manchester, or whether the Northern Quarter will ever fulfil its potential?

Strategy and big ideas
“There needs to be a clear strategy in place,” says Buckley, “to encourage small individual businesses to stay and grow, so people make us a destination city for this type of retail. I’m not sure that city organisations are doing everything they can to help this.” Sleuth has a fond foolish hope that maybe landlords in King Street will one day allow retailers such as Rags to Bitches a foot in the door, encourage them. Sleuth reckons it’s time for St Ann’s Square and King Street to be re-colonised by the independents. Dreams. Sleuth knows that the public and private sector in the city centre are concerned about the retail we offer. Maybe it’s time to do something though not talk about it: Manchester is probably the best putter-together of discussion groups and panels that the country has ever known.

It’s not Brighton
In Brighton they have ‘The Lanes’, full of the sort of seriously good meets oddball businesses you find spread out around the Northern Quarter. The difference is the customer base: the Northern Quarter simply doesn’t get the numbers of middle income customers that The Lanes get. Maybe our equivalent customers are too middle-minded or rigid in thinking – too safe - to venture out of their suburban fastnesses or The Trafford Centre, to ever shop in the Northern Quarter. Maybe we don’t do enough to encourage them? Sleuth thinks the physical look of the Northern Quarter with so many mouldering buildings and scruffy streets puts people off too. The Northern Quarter could do with the type of paving, street furniture and landscaping that areas such as Exchange Square, New Cathedral Street, Piccadilly Gardens and Canal Street have received via local government: or New York Street and Spinningfields have received via private investment. Often the place looks unloved, a mess. You wouldn’t want to sanitise it too much, but a clever design scheme would help.

The big sell-off - 24/25 July
Anyway Rags to Bitches will have the End of an Era Stock and Furniture sale on Saturday and Sunday 24/25 July. As for the online future, Buckley says, “What we plan to do with the website is make it an online store for the clothes but also create events around dressmaking, bespoke functions and so forth. We’ve always tried to be innovative, always been about good service. I want to continue that online. Of course we want to make money, but it’s not always been about the money, we also want to do things in what we feel is the right way, whether it’s with the dress-making classes, the clothes we produce ourselves and the events. We’ve not going away, just going digital.” Good lad. The web address is www.rags-to-bitches.co.uk.

PS
Now Sleuth doesn’t want all the shopaholics jumping off the CIS Tower in despair. There are still many wonderful stores in the Northern Quarter. Afflecks Palace is fully let, the Manchester Craft and Design Centre is still bravely soldiering on, stores such as Renegade Marmalade, Oi Polloi, Piccadilly Records, Oklahoma, Magma, Richard Goodall Gallery and many others are still with us. The Northern Quarter still has scruffy sex appeal, and the food and drink provision seems to be doing ok (although this morning we hear that Walrus bar is up for sale).

It’s just a shame that so many of the area’s quality shop indies are telling us how hard it is to turn a profit: just a shame that stores such as music-institution Beatin’ Rhythm, after a massive rent rise, look set to disappear this year. There are other issues too. Many retailers are worried to death about the future. As Buckley puts it: “The Tories could really fuck it all up, interest rates could soar and people really cut their shop spending.”

Maybe the CIS Tower is an option after all.

http://www.manchesterconfidential.co.uk/News/General/Sleuth-exclusive-Rags-to-Bitches-to-close_11643.asp

An interesting and well informed shopping guide to Manchester that I've just found:

http://www.iknowagreatplace.com/community/search/background.aspx?tids=711&mcid=10

Manchester's shopping district is one of the most diverse shopping districts in the UK and the majority of city centre shops are within walking distance of each other.
Even in the most upmarket stores you are treated in a friendly manner, which many think is not the case in the capital. The recently redeveloped Arndale Centre is a large 1970's city-centre shopping mall, with 280 stores across just under 2 million sqft of retail space making it the largest city centre shopping mall in the UK, including the largest Next store in the world. The place retains some of its 1970's concrete charms and STILL some of the infamous yellow tiles that are a testament to bad urban planning of that era. Part awaits an update to the exterior, but the section modernised after the 1996 bomb is a great improvement, although different to that of The Trafford Centre with a more modern simplistic feel compared with the grand exterior of the Trafford Centre. The inside has had a total revamp. It does get very busy at weekends and, unlike at The Trafford Centre, there are far too few places to sit down.

There are a lot of large shops aimed at lower income families ,including the largest Primark in the country, which is great for a bargain and much loved by US cabin crew when in town, and an Aldi food hall on Market Street (just off Manchester/East_Central|Piccadilly Gardens).

...[continued on link above]


There's a few bar and restaurant guides in the links at the bottom of the page too.

DUE TO RELOCATION
MANCHESTER
ATLAS CHAMBERS, 98 KING STREET
SHOP LEASE FOR SALE - Armani Collezioni
RENT £133,500 per annum exclusive

MANCHESTER
84/86 KING STREET
LEASE FOR SALE - Emporio Armani
(COULD BE A2/A3 SUBJECT TO CONSENTS)
RENT £166,000 per annum exclusive.

Sainsbury's eyes sixth city centre shop

20th July 2010

SAINSBURY'S is planning to open another Manchester city centre branch on the ground floor of an office block that has been in limbo for several years.

Notices on the building show it has submitted a licensing application to sell alcohol at 22-26 Cross St, a former HSBC branch, but is understood to still be in talks over a lease for the 2,600 sq ft property.

Aurora Property Developments and Premier Property Group (PPG) own the eight-storey, 26,000 sq ft office building and submitted plans for a comprehensive refurbishment in September 2008.

Leeds-based Aurora originally hoped to start work in November, 2008, and have the offices - adjacent to The Royal Exchange - ready for occupation by June, 2009. But as the economy fell into recession the scheme was put on hold.

If the Sainsbury's - its sixth in the city centre and one more than Tesco - goes ahead it will not necessarily trigger the refurbishment on the upper floors, according to Knight Frank agent David Porter who is handling the building.

"I don't think the rest of the building will be kicked off. At this stage I'm not anticipating any work to be done to the office space," said Mr Porter who stressed the developers would be prepared to start work on a speculative basis.

Aurora Property Developments is a Leeds-based developer established in 2006 by directors Ash Griffiths and James Silver and backed by North East entrepreneur Sir Tom Cowie OBE and Landid chief executive Trevor Silver. Aurora declined to comment.

Aurora and PPG appointed CB Richard Ellis and Knight Frank as joint agents to market the office accommodation and Jones Lang LaSalle for the retail outlet. Sainsbury's could not be reached for comment.

http://www.thebusinessdesk.com/northwest/news/

City suits innovative tailoring firm

20th July 2010

INNOVATIVE tailoring company A Suit That Fits is opening its fifth branch in Manchester next month.

The London-based firm, launched just four years ago on Hampstead market by friends Warren Bennett and David Hathiramani, allows customers to design their own suits online.

The new Manchester branch on Oxford Street opens on August 2. The company already has three sites in London and one in Bristol and a further 21 TailorStops - where customers can be fitted on certain days - around the country.

Warren Bennett said: "Manchester is a buzzing metropolitan city with a history and hunger for arts, culture and fashion. Everyone deserves a tailor made suit and with our new branch opening they are no longer exclusive to those with deep pockets.

"We are incredibly excited to be located in Manchester on a permanent basis, and really hope we can engage with the rich tapestry of the city even further.”

Basic suits start at around £150 , but can be customised according to customers' wishes.

As well as offerign a tradional tailoring service, customers can even enter their measurements on the Internet and completely design their suit with an online wizard.

http://www.thebusinessdesk.com/northwest/news/

http://www.asuitthatfits.com/

.....the Sainsbury's - its sixth in the city centre and one more than Tesco - goes ahead it will not necessarily trigger the refurbishment on the upper floors, according to Knight Frank agent..........

http://www.thebusinessdesk.com/northwest/news/

I make it six stores each in the city centre:

TESCO
Quay Street
Deansgate
Princess Street
Market Street
Church Street
Piccadilly


SAINSBURY'S
Quay Street
Bridge Street
Mosley Street
Whitworth Street West
Piccadilly Station
Cross Street if it goes ahead

TM Lewin's Manchester Airport store opens 5th August at Terminal 1.

I make it six stores each in the city centre:

TESCO
Quay Street
Deansgate
Princess Street
Market Street
Church Street
Piccadilly


SAINSBURY'S
Quay Street
Bridge Street
Mosley Street
Whitworth Street West
Piccadilly Station
Cross Street if it goes ahead

Actually Tesco now has seven stores in the city centre.

Tesco Metro - Market Street
Tesco Express - Deansgate
Tesco Express - Quay Street
Tesco Express - Princess Street
Tesco Express - City Tower/ Piccadilly Plaza
Tesco Express - Church Street
Tesco Express - Piccadilly

Actually Tesco now has seven stores in the city centre.

Tesco Metro - Market Street
Tesco Express - Deansgate
Tesco Express - Quay Street
Tesco Express - Princess Street
Tesco Express - City Tower/ Piccadilly Plaza
Tesco Express - Church Street
Tesco Express - Piccadilly

Indeed. So the article is even more incorrect! :)

Is the Tesco at Piccadilly Plaza actually open then now? Not been around there for a few weeks....

WHSmith has a temporary sign up in 3 Hardman Street saying they are commencing the fit out and opening shortly.

Is the Tesco at Piccadilly Plaza actually open then now? Not been around there for a few weeks....

Yes the Tesco at Piccadilly Plaza opened last week.

who can stop tesco from taking over the world?

Franklins Deli seeks a slice of city lunch market

22nd July 2010

By Chris Barry - Editor, North West

FRANKLINS Hospitality, the North West catering company, has launched the first of two new retail outlets in Manchester.

The privately-owned company, which already has two sites in Liverpool under the Franklins Deli brand, has already opened in York Street in Manchester ahead of its launch in the Spinningfields business district.

Franklins Deli prides itself on the freshness and quality of its produce. With food provenance a growing issue for consumers, the company aims to use local suppliers where possible.

The Manchester expansion will create 20 jobs. The York Street site - the former Coffee Republic shop - is 1,064sq ft with seating for 45 people, At Spinningfields Franklins is taking 1,000sq ft.

Founder and managing director Adam Franklin, said "I started Franklins Deli because I was tired of eating poor quality sandwiches. I'm sure many would have started off as a great product, but due to poor production and sourcing techniques have been diluted in flavour and quality.

"Everything produced on our menu, where possible, is locally sourced and prepared by out passionate staff."

The company's fruit and vegetables are bought from Ribbleton Farm in Lancashire and its meat is sourced from two Cheshire farms.

Parent company Franklins Hospitality provides catering and corporate hospitality aroudn the region. In January it agreed a £2.5m four year contract with Preston North End FC to cater at its Invincibles Pavillion.

http://www.thebusinessdesk.com/northwest/news/

http://www.franklinsdeli.com/

went there last week...rather nice. bit like an indie philpotts except with a much more varied hot menu.

Another Starbucks for Manchester city centre

Coffee chain opens for business at Piccadilly Place

22/07/2010 09:26:33

Coffee chain Starbucks has opened its doors at Three Piccadilly Place in Manchester city centre.

The firm, which started from a single outlet in Seattle, is the first retailer to take a unit at Piccadilly Place, built by Argent and London-based fund The Carlyle Group.

Mark Harris, director of the Carlyle Group, said: “Starbucks is the perfect brand for Piccadilly Place. We have been listening to feedback from occupiers and this was the sort of place that they envisaged bringing their clients to for more relaxed meetings over coffee.

“The development has become a new gateway to Manchester and we want to ensure that all the retailers that take space here are able to work together to provide the perfect atmosphere for the people who live, work and spend their leisure time at Piccadilly Place.”

Andrea George, retail agent at Tushingham Moore, who advised on the deal, said: “We’re are optimistic about letting the remaining retail and leisure units at Piccadilly Place. The piazza will have a real buzz; it will be a fantastic place to socialise and a national coffee house like Starbucks fits perfectly within the development.”

http://www.manchesterconfidential.co.uk/Property/General/Another-Starbucks-for-Manchester-city-centre_11701.asp

Does anybody know how many Starbucks we actually now have in town??

Starbucks has 14 stores in Manchester City Centre.

Piccadilly Station
Piccadilly Place
City Tower/ Piccadilly Plaza
Piccadilly Gardens
Manchester Arndale x 2
Exchange Square/ The Triangle
St Anns Square
Oxford Road
Deansgate
Bridge Street
Quay Street
Mount Street
Princess Street

The companies been contracting over the last couple of years, apart from the British stores which are quite profitable the US chains been having a tough time and theyve been rationalising to drive customers into fewer stores, e.g. not having stores 200m apart. Closed over 1000 stores in the last two years.

Their business model of saturating a local market with loss making stores to wipe out competition then closing all but the profitable ones has come unstuck when not enough nationally turn a profit.

Waitrose has signed as anchor tenant at Manchester House, Spinningfields - more details to follow!

Waitrose @ Manchester House ...
http://www.publicaccess.manchester.gov.uk/associateddocs/selecteddoc.aspx?093491-dpp-0008.pdf

Good stuff. It'll be nice to see a Waitrose in the city centre.

The retail offer at the Lowry Mall continues to improve with Holland & Barratt opening on 8th September.

Thanks Vision, great news about Waitrose now being confirmed for Spinningfields, looks like they will be taking space in the basement of the redeveloped Manchester House from that planning document.

Here is the proposed layout of the new retail arcade for Manchester House.

http://img842.imageshack.us/img842/2650/manchesterhouseredevelo.jpg

Subway are going to be opening a new store on Oxford Road soon in the former Music Ground unit opposite the BBC.

Plans are online here for signage.

http://www.publicaccess.manchester.gov.uk/associateddocs/MCCList1.aspx?093168/AO/2010/C1

Great news about Waitrose. I've always thought that would be a good thing to have there. Shame its only an equivilent of a Tesco Express in size though.

The retail offer at the Lowry Mall continues to improve with Holland & Barratt opening on 8th September.

Gap Outlet also open at the Lowry Outlet Mall on Wednesday 8th September.

http://www.lowryoutletmall.com/default.asp?f=/outletnews/

The retail offer at the Lowry Mall continues to improve with Holland & Barratt opening on 8th September.

That will most likely be the final nail in Julian Graves coffin. Not sure how that store survives it has little stock and at the moment isn't even taking card payments.

The unit on the ground floor across from Costa is being fitted out by mall mantainence at the moment so I wonder if thats the one they are moving into or if this will be a relocation on the clothing store that was on the corner where Suits You have moved into. I would like to see a chemist move back into the mall as one should be able to surive now more people live and work in the Quays. The last one was next to the newsagents and closed years ago.

Seems that the Julian Graves is just being re-branded as Holland & Barrett as they took over the stores fully in August laast year and are rebranding some to increase the product range.

Sounds really decent what they're doing with Manchester House....good stuff.

Julie M Twist Properties are going to be moving from their existing unit on Deansgate, to a new double fronted unit a few doors up on Deansgate, in the former Monarch Bedrooms and Luxwell units.

http://www.julietwist.com/

A planning application to knock the two units into one is online now.


237 And 239 Deansgate
Manchester
M3 4EN

Change of use from shop (Use Class A1) to estate agent (Use Class A2 financial and professional services) including installation of new shopfront

http://www.publicaccess.manchester.gov.uk/associateddocs/MCCList1.aspx?092459/FO/2010/C1

printing.com store on Deansgate has been refitted...

http://resources2.printing.com/downloads/links/DeansgateRefit/Canvases.jpg

http://resources2.printing.com/downloads/links/DeansgateRefit/HiPad_02.JPG

http://resources2.printing.com/downloads/links/DeansgateRefit/Cabinets.jpg

Urban Edge have opened where Shout used to be on Piccadilly.

The Money Shop is now fitted out on Deansgate next to Tesco Express, looks like it will open soon.

FM Boutique are closing down in the Arndale but apparently relocating, where to they do not say.

Lush is now reopen in the Arndale.

http://img203.imageshack.us/img203/208/manchester290.jpg

Work is going on in the former Heals unit on New cathedral Street, the ground floor windows have black paper up in their windows. Looks like it could be Hugo Boss that will open in the unit, from some of the signs up in the windows.

http://img251.imageshack.us/img251/5966/manchester286.jpg

Also the shopfitters Almans have a history of working with Hugo Boss and Moss Bros for their shop fitouts. http://www.almans.co.uk/almans.html

Kuyichi open on King Street on Thursday 12th August.

http://img844.imageshack.us/img844/9629/manchester285.jpg

The new WHSmith store underneath 3 Hardman Street at Spinningfields is now starting to get fitted out.

http://img43.imageshack.us/img43/4961/manchester283.jpg

Hey Little Cupcake are opening a pop up store in Spinningfields in the small retail unit next to Wagamama on Hardman Street, they are opening on Wednesday 11th August. http://www.heylittlecupcake.co.uk/

http://img204.imageshack.us/img204/5870/manchester281.jpg

Jobs are now being advertised for the new LK Bennett at Spinningfields.

http://img265.imageshack.us/img265/9783/manchester287.jpg

And finally, lots of work is now happening on The Avenue, metal fencing is up around all the future retail units underneath 3 Hardman Street and the Magistrates Court, with paving slabs being pulled up around the black boards concealing the units underneath the Magistrates Court.

Manchester Confidential taking news found out on here first, and now confirming that Waitrose will open at Spinningfields.


Waitrose set for Spinningfields

Upmarket food retailer is anchor tenant in refurbished Manchester House

26/07/2010 15:54:10

Food retailer Waitrose will move into Spinningfields in Manchester city centre, as anchor tenant at Allied London’s Manchester House.

The firm will take the ground floor retail unit fronting onto Bridge Street as the building undergoes a refurbishment, designed by the Manchester office of Sheppard Robson.

Part of the ground floor was also used by Indian restaurant Shimla Pinks before the business went into administration earlier this year. The offices also held the Arts Council headquarters in Manchester for a while.

In a design report prepared by Drivers Jonas Deloitte to accompany the planning application to Manchester City Council, Allied London said the building, which has been largely vacant since 2008, has been “underperforming as an asset and as a building for a considerable period of time.”

Manchester House will connect Spinningfields to the rest of the city once refurbished, it said. One floor of the building will be revamped for retail with the other ten floors improved for use as office space.

The report said: “The site's location as a gateway to Spinningfields calls for a design solution that allows it to act as an effective linkage to the remainder of the city centre. The proposals would bring back into use a building which has suffered from a lack of investment and help regenerate an underdeveloped part of the wider Spinningfields regeneration area.”

Waitrose already has a food concession in the Boots store on Cross Street, but this will be its first standalone store in Manchester city centre. It will provide competition for the Co-op stores more than the other medium sized supermarkets in town such as Tesco Metro and will hope its reputation for good quality own brand and bought in foods will tip the scales in its favour.

Certainly it should do a roaring trade to apartment dwellers down the west side of the city, along the River Irwell, in Spinningfields and over the river in Salford.

Manchester House was originally Scottish Life House and was built in 1965 by Manchester architects Leach, Rhodes and Walker.

Occasional Confidential writer Phil Griffin recalled its construction on the CUBE website: ‘Manchester House, just up the road from (the Leach, Rhodes and Walker) office, is an eight-storey cube over a two-storey podium. They erected the steel frame and then cast the floor slabs on-site, and stacked them one on top of the other on the ground, like so many slices of toast. When they were all done, each of them was then craned into place, one after the other, on the same day.’

So Manchester House is stacked like toast, or rare French cheeses, to have a better Waitrose analogy. How appropriate.

http://www.manchesterconfidential.co.uk/Food-and-Drink/Food-and-Drink-Retail/Waitrose-set-for-Spinningfields_11737.asp

Just a few years after shutting up shop in St Ann's Square, Aquascutum is once again searching for space in Manchester. This Autumn new menswear stores will open in Ashford, Birmingham, Canary Wharf and Windsor.

One of the former Armani stores or Mulberry's would be a great choice as I'm sure they wouldn't want to go head to head with Brooks Brothers at The Avenue.

Thanks Vision.

Porcelanosa on Water Street is now fully reopen after their £1million store refurbishment.

PC World on Chester Road in Stretford, is now fully reopen after their store refurbishment.

Vision, do you have a link?
Any ideas where in Birmingham it is going to open?

Vision, do you have a link?
Any ideas where in Birmingham it is going to open?

MoseleyTown, no link to it - I know someone who works for them them. The Birmingham store will be at The Mailbox. It's not going to be that big - probably the size of a Thomas Pink store. However in Manchester they're looking for about 3,000 sq ft so roughly the size of their old store.

The Entertainer is to open a 3,500 sq ft flagship store at the Arndale in November.

French retailer Sandro scraps standalone store plans and will now trade from concessions in Selfridges and House of Fraser.

Hotel Chocolat to open at the Trafford Centre. UGG and Ted Baker's 'Pashion' in talks to open.

Greek luxury jewellery chain Folli Follie and MAC cosmetics are looking for standalone city-centre boutiques.

Thanks Vision.

The Entertainer have been rumoured to open in the Arndale ever since the final phase of the extension opened up, so is good to finally see them getting a unit in the city centre.

I imagine Folli Follie and MAC will be looking for stores around King Street or St Anns Square, or possibly at Spinningfields, as the new retail units that will be built in the retail arcade under Manchester House would be the right size for Folli Follie or MAC.

Not surprised over Hotel Chocolat opening at Trafford Centre and also over the possibility of UGG opening there aswell, is good to see even more names opening and looking to open there, with the growing number of stores that have already open at the Trafford Centre this year.

Another Retail Update for City Centre

Hoardings are now up around either side of the escalators at Selfridges, for the new glass domed atrium, part of the stores £40million store refurbishment, the hoardings are covered in Manchester history and famous places and people relating to Manchester.

The lower ground floor of Aspecto/ Y3 at The Triangle is closed for store refurbishment.

BB's Coffees and Muffins at the Arndale is being refurbished to Coffee Break, they are still open during the refurbishment.

FM Boutique will be relocating to the empty unit next to Poundland and opposite Peacocks in the Arndale.

http://img717.imageshack.us/img717/5212/manchester295.jpg

Boards are now up advertising The Hub opening in the Arndale, they will open in early October.

http://img839.imageshack.us/img839/4903/manchester299.jpg

Jewel Nation are relocating from there store at Piccadilly Gardens next to Superdrug to a new store in the Arndale in the former Diamonds & Pearls unit.

http://img831.imageshack.us/img831/954/manchester292.jpg

Again lots of work is still going on at The Avenue, the black boards that are behind the banners advertising what store will open underneath 3 Hardmans Street have now been taken down in preperation for the new shopfronts to be installed, the banners are still in place though.

Also the black boards that were in place around the future Mulberry store underneath the Magistrates Court, have now been taken down and steelwork that was behind the black boards has been welded off, so that Mulberrys shopfront can be installed.

http://img682.imageshack.us/img682/4751/manchester243.jpg

The two black boards to the right in this photo have been taken down so the whole of the store can be seen, in preperation for Mulberrys shopfront.

Does anyone have any idea of when the old bit of the Arndale is getting done? What about the Arndale tower? Anything on that.
What about John Lewis coming to town? It has been talked for ages, any updates?

The Space NK unit in the Trafford Centre is being refitted , but no notice of who is going in there.
The Manchester Store has moved across the Mall , taking the Kodak Cafe unit .
Maybe one of the is for Hotel Chocolat

Hotel Chocolat are opening on lower Regents Crescent.

http://www.hotelchocolat.co.uk/Chocolate-Store-Trafford-Centre-Astore_tra/

I think the former Space NK unit will be for Pandora, that or Kurt Geiger could be opening there.

Paper notices up in the window of the old Heals store on New Cathedral Street. Didn't manage to stop and read, but it says 'BOSS' in big bold letters as the title. I can only assume that Hugo Boss are going in here and not Apple as was speculation.


edit: Scratch that, I've now read above.

Yes these notices are in the windows, from my retail update last week.

Work is going on in the former Heals unit on New cathedral Street, the ground floor windows have black paper up in their windows. Looks like it could be Hugo Boss that will open in the unit, from some of the signs up in the windows.

http://img251.imageshack.us/img251/5966/manchester286.jpg

Also the shopfitters Almans have a history of working with Hugo Boss and Moss Bros for their shop fitouts. http://www.almans.co.uk/almans.html

I think the former Space NK unit will be for Pandora, that or Kurt Geiger could be opening there.

I can confirm that Pandora will be opening in the Space NK unit.

Andrew

Business Desk

Rent review on the cards for Arndale tenants

TENANTS at Manchester's Arndale centre could be facing rent increases as its owner Capital Shopping Centres looks to drive growth.

The investment fund, which owns 13 regional shopping centres including Lakeside in Essex and the Metrocentre in Gateshead, saw underlying earnings grow by 28% to £43.3m in the six months to June 30.

Net asset value per share grew by 9% to 368p and the market value of its properties rose by 6% to £4.9bn. Occupancy across the sites stands at 98% and footfall increased by 3%.

Chairman Patrick Burgess is keen to continue this upward trend and is looking at rent reviews as he seeks to drive growth from lettings.

"We are now looking to drive growth in net rental income from lettings, lease expiries and rent reviews, with a particular opportunity from converting last year’s short–term lets into longer–term lets at higher rents," he said in a statement.

"With around £125m of value enhancing active management projects under consideration and around £500m of potential investment by way of major extensions, the group has significant scope to grow organically without depending on acquisitions."

CSC was formerly known as Liberty International. Its name was changed in May 2010 after the demerger of its central London activities into a newly listed company, Capital & Counties Properties. Manchester's Arndale is home to large retailers such as TK Maxx and WH Smiths as well as smaller independents.

I can confirm that Pandora will be opening in the Space NK unit.

Andrew

Thanks Andrew, I thought they would be opening there, it is defiantly the right location for Pandora to open at the Trafford Centre.

WH Smith @ 3 Hardman Street opens next week.

Its interesting that to date only Flannels, Mulberry, LK Bennett and Oliver Sweeney have put in planning applications for their stores at The Avenue.
Whilst others have been advertising for staff, there has been nothing from Armani, Brooks Brothers, DKNY, Rigby & Peller or Nicky Clarke.
Is September a realistic opening date or will it be put back?

WH Smith @ 3 Hardman Street opens next week.

Its interesting that to date only Flannels, Mulberry, LK Bennett and Oliver Sweeney have put in planning applications for their stores at The Avenue.
Whilst others have been advertising for staff, there has been nothing from Armani, Brooks Brothers, DKNY, Rigby & Peller or Nicky Clarke.
Is September a realistic opening date or will it be put back?

Latest from TM Lewin, "we have no confirmed opening date for the Manchester Spinningfields store" - doesn't sound too promising!

The latest news from Brooks Brothers is that they expect an October/November opening - with no date confirmed.

The latest news from Brooks Brothers is that they expect an October/November opening - with no date confirmed.

All Saints will be opening at Units 14-15, 3 Hardman Street in September.
Brooks Brothers were due to open at unit 14!
Perhaps they're now relocating to Manchester House or the vacant unit next to Flannels?

http://m.gmgrd.co.uk/res/804.$plit/C_71_article_1313236_image_list_image_list_item_0_image.jpg?05%2F08%2F2010%2016%3A16%3A04%3A550

A creative cook is hoping her 'pop-up' cupcake store will rise to the occasion and become a permanent fixture in the city.

Prestwich-based Hey Little Cupcake! was founded in April by former advertising art director Sarah Wilson, who turned her passion for baking into a business.

After winning a steady stream of customers through word-of-mouth and her website, Sarah is to launch her first store on August 11 in Hardman Street, which will stay open for a month.

Sarah has combined her passions for baking and travelling to create signature flavours based on cities she has visited, including one dedicated to her home town – Manchester’s Mint.

And she found her first retail site through social networking website Twitter, when her followers 'tweeted' to find out if she would be bringing her cocktail-inspired cupcakes to a screening of the Tom Cruise film Cocktail at Spinningfields in May.

Sarah said: “From a standing start in April, we’ve seen a phenomenal level of interest. I have developed a range of around 25 flavours and believe that there is a gap in the market. Spinningfields has lots of restaurants, but nothing that appeals specifically to those with a sweet tooth.”

Mark Burgess, director at The Spinningfields Management Company said: “Spinningfields is keen to work with local entrepreneurs who can bring something new and innovative to our existing food offering.

“Cupcakes are becoming big business in the UK, with several brands reaching cult status in London and we’re committed to helping Hey Little Cupcake! emulate that success in Manchester.”

http://menmedia.co.uk/manchestereveningnews/news/business/s/1313236_cupcake_company_has_recipe_for_city_centre_success

The Avenue's now got it's own Twitter account,

twitter.com/AvenueThe (http://twitter.com/avenuethe)

New store for the Arndale

http://www.luke1977.com

Job Details
Assistant Manager - Luke
Manchester Arndale


Reference:


Closing Date: 09/08/2010
Type: Full-time , Permanent

Hours: 40hrs over 7 days
Rate of Pay: 17-19K
Details:

Luke are looking to recruit an Assistant Manager to work at their store within Manchester Arndale.



We are delighted to be looking for a commercial, passionate and enthusiastic assistant store manager to join our brand new team.

This is an exciting time to be joining Luke as you will have an input into development of the brand.

As an assistant manager your main responsibilities will be to support the store manager to maximise the sales and proffit opertunities for the store and to lead and inspire staff to ensure that we deliver consistantly exceelent levels of customer service.

You will be accountable to support the store manager to ensure the stores sales performance is maximised to it's full potential and delivered in line with agreed targets. Support the store manager to ensure costs are managed within budget and that every oppertunity is sought to maximise store profitabilty and to consistantly act as an ambassador for the brand and to ensure that the sales team follow your example.

To apply you must have 3 years experience operating at a similar level within fashion retial, you must be adaptable to change and have a clear passion for the Luke brand. You will need to be able to demonstrate good oragnisational and leadership skills and be commercially astute and driven.

In return you will be offered a rewarding career with an expanding brand

Thanks for all the info regarding when all the stores at The Avenue will be opening Vision.

Thanks neil, that will be Luke 1977's third shop, so it is a real good signing for the Arndale and the city as well, they open their second store in Cardiff tomorrow (7th August.)

TM Lewin puts its shirt on airport

6th August 2010

LUXURY shirt retailer TM Lewin has opened its third outlet in Greater Manchester and its first at an airport.

The historic company, founded in 1898 in London, has expanded aggressively in the last decade. It opened its doors at the new shop at Manchester Airport's
Terminal 1 on Thursday.

TM Lewin opened its first Manchester store in 2003, on King Street in the city centre and added a second store in the Trafford Centre in 2006.

Until 2000 TM Lewin operated from only four stores. The Manchester Airport store is the seventh to open this year, and takes the network to 81 branches and nine concessions.

Geoff Quinn, chief executive of T.M.Lewin, said: “Manchester is one of the UK’s busiest airports and we’re absolutely delighted to have opened there this summer.

"We have just announced annual sales of over £83m and sales in the first three months of the new financial year were up by 27%.

"With the opening of our first airport store we will be able to reach more customers and offer travellers businesswear at affordable prices.”

http://www.thebusinessdesk.com/northwest/news/

Westworld on Church Street has been refurbished to Bench.

Kitbag have now closed their temporary store on Market Street.

The former Gamestation unit on Market Street, looks like it is now being fitted out for a new tennant, no mention off the new retailer yet though.

The new WHSmith store at Spinningfields will also include a Krispy Kreme cabinet, when it opens next week.

William Hill is now being fitted out on Deansgate.

NEW STORE ACQUIRED IN ROCHDALE

06/08/2010

We are extremely pleased to announce that today we have signed contracts for the purchase of the assets of Westgate Department Store in Rochdale.

This new addition to the Beales family of stores follows just two months after our purchase of Robbs Department Store in Hexham. We already operate three department stores in the North West: Bolton, Southport and Kendal.

We are impressed with Rochdale's town centre plan and the new planned transport links and believe the ownership of the store will provide the people of Rochdale with a better mix of shopping in the town than the current predominance of discount retailers.

This purchase takes the Beales family of stores up to thirteen. The contractual completion date is 5 September 2010.

http://www.beales.co.uk/news-article.asp?Article=58

The latest news from Brooks Brothers is that they expect an October/November opening - with no date confirmed.

Looks like job applications for Brooks Brothers are now going up.


Store Manager - Manchester
Location: Manchester , Lancashire
Salary: £25000 - £30000 per annum + 1% Comm, Bonus & Benefits
Date posted: 06/08/2010 15:52
Position:Store Management
Sector:Fashion
Job type:Permanent
Company: Hays Retail
Contact: Joanna MacNab
Ref: RetailChoice/1218223
Job ID: 48182190

Founded in 1818, this luxury retailer has shaped the American style of dress over the last two centuries and continues to do so to this day through their innovative designs, fine quality, personal service and exceptional value.

A success across America and Asia, this client are now looking to expand across the UK to add to their stores in the capital and Scotland, and are preparing to open in the new prestigious location in Manchester city centre.

A traditional retailer that continues to uphold the same values and principles that they have always prided themselves on, as well as offering innovative technology and up-to-date style advice. They still deliver key staple items such as the Polo Coat and Argyle Socks but in beautiful flagship stores and using their own 'Digital Tailoring'.

For the launch of their new menswear store, I am working with my client to seek skilled and dedicated retailers with experience in formalwear and tailoring whilst delivering exceptional customer service levels.

In return for your hard work and contribution to the development of the business, you will receive a competitive salary, 1% commission on all sales and a brilliant benefits package from the company.

http://www.retailchoice.com/JobSearch/JobDetails.aspx?JobId=48182190&Keywords=new&Market=17&Industry=51&Sort=2&LTxt=Manchester%2c+Lancashire&Radius=0&LIds1=fr&LIds2=dc&clid=2027&cltypeid=1&clName=Manchester

William Hill are going to be opening on Mosley Street in the former Halifax branch across from the tram stop and Alexandra on Mosley Street has closed after they went into administration.

Squat Toilets at Rochdale Shopping Centre to be removed due to Council pressure.

http://menmedia.co.uk/manchestereveningnews/news/s/1313322_squat_toilets_to_be_abandoned_after_public_outrage

Fly53 to swoop onto the high street with 26-store assault

7 August 2010

By Katherine Rushton

Streetwear brand Fly53 is to open 26 standalone stores over the next three years as part of its plans to expand rapidly into retail.

The brand has 290 UK stockists and seven concessions in department store House of Fraser, as well as a transactional website, but ithas no bricks-and-mortar presence of its own.

It will open 10 standalones stores in the next 12 months, targeting cities with large student populations, such as Leeds, Bristol, Manchester and Cardiff. It aims to secure sites on high streets dominated by multiples where, it claims, fewer indies can afford a site and it is less likely to cannibalise its stockists’ sales.

Fly53 founder and creative director Will Rigg said: “We have to raise visibility and a shop is the biggest advert you can get. Our wholesale business is what Fly53 was built on, so we are not going to upset that. We are going to choose our sites very carefully.”

Stockists had a mixed reaction to the news. Young fashion mini-chain Ark, which operates in the North and Midlands, and contemporary mini-chain Joy, headquartered in London, both sell Fly53 in the brand’s priority cities. Both said the retail roll-out could boost sales.

But Michael Francis, buyer at streetwear indie Symbolife in Bristol, said he would probably drop Fly53 as a result. He said: “We’re not happy. We’ve already seen our online sales [of the brand] vanish since Fly53 launched its website.”

Fly53 is understood to turn over about £15m a year and has seen sales grow 30% for autumn 10, compared with autumn 09. The retail roll-out follows two injections of funding by venture capital firm Key Capital Partners, totalling £4.6m. The first was in March 2009, when the firm invested £3.6m in return for a 35% stake. The remainder was granted in June.

http://www.drapersonline.com/

http://www.fly53.com/

Grand Arcade saved
Published on Sat Aug 07 11:19:11 BST 2010

WIGAN’S landmark Grand Arcade shopping centre has been rescued from administration.

Property group Redefine International, previously known as CIREF, will buy the centre after a company voluntary arrangement (CVA) was agreed by 100 per cent of its creditors.

The deal ends more than a year of uncertainty sparked when the Grand Arcade’s previous owner Modus entered administration.

Wigan Council’s Head of Economic Regeneration, Susan Gambles, said: “When it opened, the Grand Arcade created 700 new jobs and Wigan became one of the top 100 retail destinations in the country.

“The Grand Arcade management has remained committed to Wigan and the local economy.

“It has supported a number of local initiatives and provided excellent premises and services for businesses and visitors to Wigan town centre.

“We are delighted that Redefine International has seen the potential in the Grand Arcade and look forward to working with them in the future.”

Redefine were one of the investors involved in Modus’ original scheme to build and run six shopping centres across the country including the Grand Arcade and Birchwood in Warrington.

The company agreed a deal to buy back five of them after Modus entered administration, but that deal was dependant on a CVA being agreed for the Wigan town centre shopping centre.

Joint administrators Mark Firmin and Richard Fleming, of the accountancy firm KPMG, put forward the Redefine’s offer, which needed support from 75 per cent of creditors, a few weeks ago.

Individual CVAs will be set up for each company owed money by Modus, meaning funds will be made available for distribution to both preferential and unsecured creditors through the deal.

Mark Firmin said: “We are delighted that the CVA has been met with 100 percent approval from creditors.

“Our primary objective from the outset of this administration was to ensure the survival of the businesses as a going concern.

“Not only has this been achieved, but the creditors of the two companies will receive a higher dividend distribution than would otherwise be available.”

Redefine, then known as CIREF, were mooted as potential buyers of the Grand Arcade in November last year.

At the time it was believed that Aviva Commercial Finance, which was owed 143m by the centre’s parent company Modus, was helping with the deal.

The Grand Arcade opened in March 2007 and provided a huge jobs and retail boost to Wigan,

But in Spring 2009 Modus announced it was making cut-backs, including slashing jobs, before entering administration that May.

Insiders have consistently insisted that the day-to-day running of the shopping centre would not be affected and that its long-term future would be secured.

The deal with Redefine now ensures its future.

Mark Firmin added: “This also demonstrates the versatility of a CVA process.

“Not only is it a tool that can be used to restructure traditional retail and trading businesses; in this instance, we were able to find an elegant solution for a distressed property company which ultimately delivered maximum value.”

http://www.wigantoday.net/news/grand_arcade_saved_1_1156000

The deal that was reliant on the CVF agreement:
http://www.redefineinternational.je/documentation/news/Shopping%20Centre%20Debt%20Restruct%2016%207%2010.pdf

The Starbucks drive-thru at the Trafford Centre now has it's framework complete.

The planning application for the shopfront for Unit G05 at The Avenue is now online.


City Magistrates Courts
Spinningfields
Manchester
M60 1PR

New shop front at the Manchester Magistrates Court comprising a new pedestrian entrance, exterior glazing system with interior metal frame structure at lower and upper levels and associated works

http://www.publicaccess.manchester.gov.uk/associateddocs/MCCList1.aspx?093696/FO/2010/C1

How the new shopfront will look.

http://img826.imageshack.us/img826/5028/theavenuenickyclarkego5.jpg

This unit is apparently for Nicky Clarke

http://www.nickyclarke.com

Pandora Opens at Trafford Centre, Manchester

The PANDORA store has become a staple within the Manchester Arndale Centre since it opened earlier this year but the Danish jewelry brand have now branched out, down the M602, in Manchester Trafford Centre.

PANDORA is offering local shoppers the chance to “celebrate life’s unforgettable moments” in their band new store at Manchester Trafford Centre. The new store is situated in shop unit 102, within The Dome area of the mall near the centre’s Selfridges and will open on Saturday 7th August at 9:00am. The new store will benefit from highly trained staff and stock some jewellery lines which will be exclusive to the Manchester Trafford Centre store, offering a bespoke experience to all shoppers.

PANDORA said, of their new store; “our new store in Manchester Trafford Centre offers a beautiful array of jewellery including PANDORA’s signature charm bracelet which makes the most extraordinary gift and the Manchester Trafford Centre staff will be delighted to advise you on that perfect gift. Not only does PANDORA Manchester Trafford Centre offer unparalleled service from their highly trained team who are dedicated to helping you create your perfect bracelet but PANDORA has also produced a selection of exclusive charms which are available exclusively to the Manchester Trafford Centre store.”

The Manchester Trafford Centre PANDORA store aims to offer a bit of sparkle and glamour to the centre and to shopper’s jewellery boxes. Famed for its mix-and-match ethos, it is no wonder that PANDORA jewellery is the world’s largest jewellery manufacturer selling a piece from its collections every second somewhere in the world.

http://www.manchesterfashion.com/c/19/441/pandora-opens-at-trafford-centre-manchester/

http://www.traffordcentre.co.uk/shopping/directory/pandora

The Trafford Centre could do with a few more, unique, shops. Every time I go there's another shop shut down. And yet I heard that Peel are increasing unit rates? How do they get away with it?

People need a REASON to go there. They're only about 2 or 3 shops there which you wouldn't find anywhere else in Manchester ...

...

The Trafford Centre could do with a few more, unique, shops. Every time I go there's another shop shut down. And yet I heard that Peel are increasing unit rates? How do they get away with it?

People need a REASON to go there. They're only about 2 or 3 shops there which you wouldn't find anywhere else in Manchester ...


I think the trafford centre should make space for Bargain Booze, and Betfred/PaddyPower/ Ladbrokes etc...
I reckon the money power will be rolling in.
It has worked for Deansgate.

The Trafford Centre could do with a few more, unique, shops. Every time I go there's another shop shut down. And yet I heard that Peel are increasing unit rates? How do they get away with it?

People need a REASON to go there. They're only about 2 or 3 shops there which you wouldn't find anywhere else in Manchester ...

two good reason why people go there:

1. free parking
2. big roof that keeps out the rain.

There's a pretty decent atmosphere at the Trafford centre compared to town. I visited it for the first time in 10 years the other week and thought it was a pleasant change to the city centre. It doesn't seem like a place I would visit week in week out however, which would be senseless. Its basically like a Las Vegas Casino without the gambling.

Valu Discount Store are opening in the former Pound Empire unit on Piccadilly.

The scrolling information screen has now been installed at the new Visitor Information Centre at City Tower.

FM Boutique have now closed in the Arndale opposite Foot Asylum, they will reopen soon in their new store location next to Poundland.

Lush on Market Street is closed for their store refurbishment, they reopen on Thursday 19th August.

WHSmith is now open underneath 3 Hardman Street at Spinningfields.

All the black hoardings are down around the shops at The Avenue underneath the Magistrates Court, ready for their shopfronts to be installed and fitting out of the shops to commence.

Expanding fit-out firm chooses Belvedere

11 Aug 2010, 09:37

Landlord, Orchard Street Investment Management, has signed a new tenant to the ground floor retail units at Belvedere in Manchester city centre.

Nottingham-based Paragon Interiors Group, a design and fit-out firm, is opening a showroom at the building to service an expansion in the North West. The firm signed for 2,900 sq ft on a 15-year lease.

The new showroom is due to open in September this year. Paragon already has North West clients, including Adidas, Bupa, Adecco and JD Sports.

Paragon said it will create up to 12 new posts over the coming months across its departments and there will be a requirement for new electricians and mechanical experts to service the region. Mike McKeown, head of Paragon Manchester, added: "Manchester is a deliberate choice to pioneer our company's regionalisation, the city holds a well-defined property market with renewed signs of increased activity and we're delighted to be entering it with our unique service offering. In selecting Belvedere as our base, it best reflects our ethos of quality and profile with its prominent position, street level frontage and contemporary build and we look forward to creating a dynamic and energetic business here."

Edwards & Co acted on behalf of Paragon Interiors Group; WHR Property Consultants LLP and Jones Lang LaSalle for Orchard Street IM.

http://www.placenorthwest.co.uk/news/archive/6871-expanding-fit-out-firm-chooses-belvedere.html

New Restaurant at Kendals

093939/FO/2010/C1 02/08/2010 14/08/2010 Part Ground Floor House Of Fraser 98 - 106 Deansgate Manchester M3 2QG Change of use from A1 (retail) to A3 (restaurant), creation of an associated pedestrian entrance to ... Application Pending Consideration

New Restaurant at Kendals

Most probably a Yo Sushi, though they could surprise us with the San Carlo deli concept.

It's definitely not Yo Sushi, however I don't want to say too much as I'm not sure how secret this is meant to be!

Jellytots & Dollymixtures have opened their concessions with Selfridges Trafford and Selfridges Manchester today (13th August.)

http://www.facebook.com/JellytotsandDollymixtures

They opened their first store in Sale earlier this year, and looks like they could be opening their second standalone store at MediaCity possibly.

Its not secret anymore, the plans are now online for the new restaurant at House of Fraser.

It will be San Carlo Cicchetti, it will be one of the main openings of the stores 175th anniversary celebrations, which will happen in October.

Information about House of Fraser Manchesters 175th anniversary
http://img651.imageshack.us/img651/5282/houseoffraser175anniver.jpg

San Carlo Cicchetti plans
http://img191.imageshack.us/img191/6923/sancarlocicchetti.jpg

http://img294.imageshack.us/img294/9986/sancarlocicchetti1.jpg

Didn't they just redo all the ground floor in the past 2 years? I assume this is going at the back near where the back so it will be across from the current San Carlo?

[QUOTE=flange;61968173]Its not secret anymore, the plans are now online for the new restaurant at House of Fraser.

It will be San Carlo Cicchetti, it will be one of the main openings of the stores 175th anniversary celebrations, which will happen in October.

Good find Flange. A welcome addition to King St W and a shot in the arm for Kendals (oops House of Fraser). Wouldn't it be great if they reverted to their old name?!

Didn't they just redo all the ground floor in the past 2 years? I assume this is going at the back near where the back so it will be across from the current San Carlo?

Yes it is going in the back corner of the store as you said uklad, literally opposite the entrance for San Carlo, also they are not taking that much space on the ground floor is mostly space where the window displays were and stock room etc space, so really not taking away from House of Fraser.

http://img294.imageshack.us/img294/9986/sancarlocicchetti1.jpg

Jellytots & Dollymixtures have opened their concessions with Selfridges Trafford and Selfridges Manchester today (13th August.)

http://www.facebook.com/JellytotsandDollymixtures

They opened their first store in Sale earlier this year, and looks like they could be opening their second standalone store at MediaCity possibly.

I am amazed they do the business in Sale , it is a really odd location , no real passing trade , on the edge of town , with no parking outside ! I wondered how long they will last , but if they are baking there to supply other stores maybe for quite a while !!! Have to wait and see........

Aroma and Amore (Perfume outlet) opp the soon to be opened Gap outlet at the Lowry Mall now closed.

H&B Outlet opening in The Lowry Outlet Mall
16 Aug 2010, 14:25


Holland & Barrett, trading under the name of H&B Outlet, has taken a 1,196 sq ft ground floor unit at The Lowry Outlet Mall in Salford Quays.

H&B Outlet will be situated between Camille Lingerie and Bijoux Jewellery on the ground floor of the Mall and is scheduled to open on Wednesday 18 August.

The store is expected to stock a range of vitamins, supplements, foods and sports nutrition products.

The Lowry Outlet Mall is owned by Emerson and neighbours The Lowry arts centre and Imperial War Museum North, while Peel's Media City UK is also located nearby, across the River Irwell.

Rob Hallworth, centre manager, said: "It's an exciting time for the Mall and for the area as a whole, we've created a 'golden triangle' of retail, leisure and business sectors - MediacityUK, The Lowry Theatre/Lowry Outlet Mall and the Imperial War Museum North - and we're sure H&B Outlet will benefit hugely from being a part of this."

H&B Outlet joins other tenants including Dickies, Bijoux and Gap Outlet at the Mall. Details of the rental agreement were not disclosed



http://www.placenorthwest.co.uk

In the Trafford Centre H&M have reopened , and the store is HUGE !!
Apple are in temporary premises as they refurbish and double the size of the existing store , which it needed.
Beaverbrooks are also having a refit , they need to look good when the Omega store opens next to them.

Thanks oakman, I knew the H&M unit would be huge this is their second time extending their store, and is good to finally have the allsports unit finally let again after years off being empty.

The Omege store is being opened and operated by Beaverbrooks, Omega will have a entrance from the mall itself and into the Beaverbrooks store aswell, it will be the only store in the Trafford Centre to sell Omega products, all other retailers that currently sell Omega products have been told to stop selling Omega products, when the stores opens in September.

Great news about Apple it has been long needed for them to extend their store at Trafford Centre, I have always thought that they should extend into the former Dolcis unit and finally they are.

Also Appy Feet have relocated their store from upper Regents Crescent to a new store on lower Regents Crescent.

And Next have extended their store on upper Regents Crescent into the former Bank unit, it includes the new Next Shoe Room concept.

JD King of Trainers has been refurbished at the Arndale.

http://img843.imageshack.us/img843/9355/manchester312.jpg

Fossil at the Arndale is closed, the shutters where down at the store and white paper in the store windows today, looks like it is for a store refurbishment though.

Celebrate are having a closing down sale at the Arndale.

Hoardings are up around the former Madhouse/ New Look unit at the Arndale, no indication of the future tennant yet though.

Watch It Watches have closed their kiosk opposite USC at the Arndale.

The Lower Ground Floor of Aspecto/Y3 at The Triangle is now reopen, after their store refurbishment.

Barbour have opened an exclusive shop in shop at Aspecto at The Triangle.

Cushion Couture have reopened in the city centre, on Deansgate in the former Clintons Card unit as Cushion Couture At Home.

http://img830.imageshack.us/img830/8160/manchester311.jpg

Kuyichi are now open on King Street.

http://img706.imageshack.us/img706/7574/manchester307.jpg

Hoardings are now down around the refurbished Watches of Switzerland on King Street. Is a huge improvement on how it used to look, the shopfront now looks pretty much like Monsoon next door. Looks like the store will be open by the end of this week or start of next week,

Hey Little Cupcake are now open at Spinningfields, apparently it has been pretty popular with the store selling out most days since opening last week, if it carries on like that would not be surprised if the store become a permanent fixture at Spinningfields.

http://img404.imageshack.us/img404/6640/manchester305.jpg

WHSmith at Spinningfields

http://img341.imageshack.us/img341/8986/manchester302.jpg

H&B Outlet opening in The Lowry Outlet Mall
16 Aug 2010, 14:25


Holland & Barrett, trading under the name of H&B Outlet, has taken a 1,196 sq ft ground floor unit at The Lowry Outlet Mall in Salford Quays.

H&B Outlet will be situated between Camille Lingerie and Bijoux Jewellery on the ground floor of the Mall and is scheduled to open on Wednesday 18 August.

The store is expected to stock a range of vitamins, supplements, foods and sports nutrition products.

The Lowry Outlet Mall is owned by Emerson and neighbours The Lowry arts centre and Imperial War Museum North, while Peel's Media City UK is also located nearby, across the River Irwell.

Rob Hallworth, centre manager, said: "It's an exciting time for the Mall and for the area as a whole, we've created a 'golden triangle' of retail, leisure and business sectors - MediacityUK, The Lowry Theatre/Lowry Outlet Mall and the Imperial War Museum North - and we're sure H&B Outlet will benefit hugely from being a part of this."

H&B Outlet joins other tenants including Dickies, Bijoux and Gap Outlet at the Mall. Details of the rental agreement were not disclosed



http://www.placenorthwest.co.uk


Looks like when H&B open at the Lowry Mall, Julian Graves (owned incidentally by Holland and Barrett) will remain open.

Dont be surprised if we see the large empty retail/restaurante unit next to Lime Bar in the Lowry Mall be put to good use very shortly...watch this space!!

Dont be surprised if we see the large empty retail/restaurante unit next to Lime Bar in the Lowry Mall be put to good use very shortly...watch this space!!

It's been crying out for that, since it first opened. Indian?

It's been crying out for that, since it first opened. Indian?

As yet no idea:ohno:

There's a new-ish jewellery shop on Beech Road, Chorlton called Franny and Filer, sells handmade British jewellery.

Kind of like the Craft Centre's stuff.

http://www.frannyandfiler.com/

Dont be surprised if we see the large empty retail/restaurante unit next to Lime Bar in the Lowry Mall be put to good use very shortly...watch this space!!

Is it going to be for a bar or restaurant WingTips, seeing as the plaza has all bars or restaurants around it.

Is it going to be for a bar or restaurant WingTips, seeing as the plaza has all bars or restaurants around it.

I would imagine so as the unit is already designed and laidout for that use.

Yeah I was told it had been let and also they are in talks for the units near the info desk. Also I think Lime is having problems I wonder how long that place will last.

Just to mention whilst in town with a friend earlier we went into Topman/Topshop in the Arndale, and it seems that it is in the process of being refurbished inside, with a particular overhaul on the top floor. The old Office shoe section is boarded off with just KG written on the boards. Is this a new Kurt Geiger concession?
I didn't have anything on me to take any photo's but from the looks inside alot of work has been done and is yet to be done on bringing it up to date with the other flagship stores.

^^ Yes the Topshop/Topman inside the Arndale has been going under refurbishment for the last month or so. New signage has now gone up inside the store over the last week directing you top Topshop or Topman and what is on each floor, and I imagine new signage will be put up outside soon.

Yes Kurt Geiger are opening a concession within Topshop within the Arndale, like the Topshop at Oxford Circus and Liverpool.

Manchester is a high street hot spot

August 18, 2010

Manchester’s shopping streets are one of only three UK property markets rated as “hot” for investors.

Surveyor DTZ says the city’s high streets and malls rank with shops in London’s West End and offices in the Square Mile, as the only three UK property markets which are seriously tempting to investors.

The hotspots rank along with office markets in San Francisco, Hong Kong and Tokyo and retail markets in Los Angeles, Chicago and Singapore.

Other cities in the UK are rated as over-priced and under-performing, according to DTZ’s Fair Value analysis.

The report comes as developers show renewed confidence in Greater Manchester’s retail sector. Dransfield Properties says it will press ahead with a second phase at its Lime Square retail scheme in Openshaw.

Work will begin early next year. The second phase will add 76,550 sq ft of shops and a health club. A new 79,250 sq ft Morrisons supermarket was part of the first phase, and is due to open in November.

The company says its relatively low levels of debt make it possible to finance a scheme which other developers may have struggled to complete in a recession.

Dransfield Properties’ Amanda Holmes said: “We are extremely pleased with how initial marketing has been received, and seven companies are currently in legals to take space in the second phase of Lime Square.

“We have worked closely in partnership with Manchester city council who have allowed the scheme to be delivered in phases and, despite the economic situation, we are lowly geared as a business and are therefore in a good position to finance and bring forward those schemes we have been working on in recent years.”

The Openshaw development is a key part of the wider regeneration of the area. Dransfield has worked closely with New East Manchester and Manchester city council. DTZ’s report shows that Manchester retail property is fairly priced and offers attractive returns to investors over the next five years, unlike most other UK cities.

DTZ said that, while London City offices, London West End retail and Manchester retail had good investment prospects, investors should be wary of “sluggish rental growth” and that the UK was not as attractive now as this time last year.

http://menmedia.co.uk/manchestereveningnews/news/business/s/1314362_manchester_is_a_high_street_hot_spot

Tangerine brings BoConcept to Manchester

Thursday, 19 August 2010

Danish furniture retailer BoConcept is launching into the Manchester marketplace with PR support from local consumer outfit Tangerine.

The chain, which specialises in affordable designer furniture, is set to open a franchised store in Great Ancoats at the beginning of September. Husband and wife franchisee team Jamie and Julie Kerner approached Tangerine PR following a recommendation.

The agency will now launch the store with a ‘housewarming’ weekend on 11 and 12 September, building on the initial coverage with an ongoing press office and social media activity across the next 12 months.

Group MD Sandy Lindsay commented: “Manchester is a perfect location to expand the BoConcept store portfolio, especially with the development around the Great Ancoats area to become a shopping destination for high end designer furniture.

“The range of products available from BoConcept is amazing and the team can’t wait to introduce this fantastic brand to the city.”

Bo Concept are opening on Great Ancoats Street, in the MM2 Building the same building where Roche Bobois are. Bo Concept open on September 4th.

http://www.boconcept.co.uk/BoConcept_Manchester_-_New_opening_Sept.aspx?ID=104339

Great shop. Could have thought of a hundred better locations for it though.

Well being next to Roche Bobois could help them. Also from the sounds of the article, it looks like that area of Ancoats is going to become an area for furniture and homeswares stores possibly.

But even Deansgate or Barton Square at the Trafford Centre would have been better locations probably, seeing as they have alot of other furniture and homeswares stores.

But its good to finally get them opening in Manchester anyway.

HSE prosecutes over asbestos scare at Arndale

19 Aug 2010, 16:14

A shop fitting company has been fined after five workers were exposed to potentially deadly asbestos fibres at the Arndale Centre in Manchester.

Eastern Regional Shopfitters was prosecuted by the Health & Safety Executive after it ignored a report which stated asbestos was present in a shop it was working on.

Two workers spent five days ripping out old shop fittings in October 2009 before they discovered that asbestos had been used in some of the ceiling panels. Another three management staff at the Arndale Centre were also potentially exposed to the fibres during routine checks on the work.

Cambridge-based Eastern Regional Shopfitters admitted three breaches of the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2006 and one of the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974. It was fined £4,000 at Trafford Magistrates' Court and ordered to pay £3,215 towards the cost of the prosecution.

Mark Green, 45 from Cambridge, was one of the two shop fitters to be exposed to asbestos fibres. He said: "It plays on my mind. I am more aware of the possibility I may become ill and that my life has unwittingly been put on the line.

"I hope that companies in the construction industry, no matter what their size, now begin to take asbestos more seriously. They should put everyone who works for them on asbestos awareness courses because workers need to be more aware.

"When I go on a job now, the first question I ask is 'Have you done an asbestos report?' and then, if it is present, 'What will your actions be?'."

Tom Merry, the investigating inspector at HSE, said: "Eastern Regional Shopfitters knew asbestos was present in the shop but it didn't inform its workers and it didn't ensure it was dealt with safely.

"Abestos only becomes a risk if it is disturbed so the shop fitters could have worked safely if they knew where the asbestos was. It should either have been sealed or removed by a licensed contractor before the work started.

"Five people now have to live with the knowledge that they may become ill with a life-threatening lung disease. Shop fitting and property maintenance companies must treat the risks from asbestos seriously so more lives aren't put in danger in the future."

Eastern Regional Shopfitters was charged with breaching Regulations 5, 8 and 11 of the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2006 by failing to carry out a suitable assessment of the asbestos, carrying out asbestos removal without a license, and exposing workers to asbestos.

Asbestos is the biggest single cause of work-related deaths in the UK, with an estimated 4,000 people dying every year.

http://www.placenorthwest.co.uk/news/archive/6949-hse-prosecutes-over-asbestos-scare-at-arndale.html

This relates to the Shakeaway unit in the Arndale I think, and is one of the main reasons why it has nearly taken them a year to fit out and open their store.

Well being next to Roche Bobois could help them. Also from the sounds of the article, it looks like that area of Ancoats is going to become an area for furniture and homeswares stores possibly.

But even Deansgate or Barton Square at the Trafford Centre would have been better locations probably, seeing as they have alot of other furniture and homeswares stores.

But its good to finally get them opening in Manchester anyway.

I think this opening has been years coming to Manchester if I remember correctly , did no one tell them ILVA , which offered affordable homeware has been and gone in the area ! Barton Square nowadays seems to be the best place for homeware stores now !

After going to the Outlet Mall today, I think the next stores that the Lowry Outlet Mall should try and get to open there is possibly HMV, Waterstones, Starbucks and possibly Paperchase.

The reasons for HMV are, there is now no CD, DVD or Game store at the centre after Virgin/ Zavvi closed last year.
Waterstones, there is no bookstore within the centre and what with Salford Uni opening their campus at Media City next year, there needs to be a good book store within the vacinity of the campus for the students.
Starbucks, as usually a coffee store and Waterstones go hand in hand, just something different from Costa as they are already in the Mall.
And Paperchase as they are becoming alot more popular within Waterstones stores, but their is already quite a few arts and crafts stores at the mall already.

I think these stores would create alot more footfall into the mall and I think a good location within the mall is the former Toy Factory unit and the huge empty unit by the food court. These units could easily be split up into four fair size units for these retailers, with the Stabucks being the closest unit to the Food Court.

After going to the Outlet Mall today, I think the next stores that the Lowry Outlet Mall should try and get to open there is possibly HMV, Waterstones, Starbucks and possibly Paperchase.

The reasons for HMV are, there is now no CD, DVD or Game store at the centre after Virgin/ Zavvi closed last year.
Waterstones, there is no bookstore within the centre and what with Salford Uni opening their campus at Media City next year, there needs to be a good book store within the vacinity of the campus for the students.
Starbucks, as usually a coffee store and Waterstones go hand in hand, just something different from Costa as they are already in the Mall.
And Paperchase as they are becoming alot more popular within Waterstones stores, but their is already quite a few arts and crafts stores at the mall already.

I think these stores would create alot more footfall into the mall and I think a good location within the mall is the former Toy Factory unit and the huge empty unit by the food court. These units could easily be split up into four fair size units for these retailers, with the Stabucks being the closest unit to the Food Court.

I would agree with your post however I also think that the Quays could do with a good electricals store such as Currys or something similar to the smaller comet store in the Arndale as it would serve the residents of the Quays well, as well as the couple of thousand students to be moved to the new campus from Salford Uni.

After going to the Outlet Mall today, I think the next stores that the Lowry Outlet Mall should try and get to open there is possibly HMV, Waterstones, Starbucks and possibly Paperchase.

The reasons for HMV are, there is now no CD, DVD or Game store at the centre after Virgin/ Zavvi closed last year.
Waterstones, there is no bookstore within the centre and what with Salford Uni opening their campus at Media City next year, there needs to be a good book store within the vacinity of the campus for the students.
Starbucks, as usually a coffee store and Waterstones go hand in hand, just something different from Costa as they are already in the Mall.
And Paperchase as they are becoming alot more popular within Waterstones stores, but their is already quite a few arts and crafts stores at the mall already.

I think these stores would create alot more footfall into the mall and I think a good location within the mall is the former Toy Factory unit and the huge empty unit by the food court. These units could easily be split up into four fair size units for these retailers, with the Stabucks being the closest unit to the Food Court.


Please NO Starbucks...its over rated, pretentious and way way over priced! think we had this discussion last year? Waterstones probably would not do all that well, there is already a book store out let there, however I think we will see a profile change in the outlet mall in the next 12 months, as we have already heard an name change could be on the way to Lowry Mall, watch this space as I often say.

Government architecture watchdog CABE has delivered a damning review of plans for a new Tesco store in Hattersley near Manchester.


The plans, aimed at providing regeneration for the area, are for a 94,000 sq ft supermarket.

The scheme would be developed on land to the north east of Hattersley District centre. It is intended that land closer to the town centre would later be developed into community facilities.

However in CABE’s report today the plans were criticised for “prioritising the supermarket above anything else.”

It added that the supermarket had been placed in the furthest possible location from the town centre – thus favouring residents with cars.

The report said: “We have significant concerns for the design of this proposal and we think that this in an inappropriate catalyst to the district centre intended.

“We understand that the new district centre is to be anchored by a food store and serve the needs of local residents of Hattersley and in principle we support this, however, this proposal seems to have prioritised the supermarket above anything else.

“ It will be difficult to create a meaningful district centre when the supermarket is to the north of the site and the ‘back of house’ uses are to the south. A car park and a petrol filling station are unlikely to help create the active community hub intended.”

The report also said that the roof of the building, which is visible from the Pennines, needed to be improved to integrate with the surrounding areas.

“Redeveloping this prominent site brings a unique opportunity to create a new piece of town that brings many benefits to its residents,” the report added.

“ It is extremely disappointing that this opportunity has been lost to a development such as this. We recommend that a fundamental re-think is given to the development and in particular to the site layout.”

http://www.propertyweek.com/news/region/north-west/tescos-hattersley-plans-extremely-disappointing-says-cabe/5004478.article

I would agree with your post however I also think that the Quays could do with a good electricals store such as Currys or something similar to the smaller comet store in the Arndale as it would serve the residents of the Quays well, as well as the couple of thousand students to be moved to the new campus from Salford Uni.

There is already the huge Curry store at White City Retail Park, which kinda covers that area for electricals.

Also the Currys at White City will soon be refurbished to a Curry Megastore and the PC World down the road has recently been refurbished so I think the electricals sector is covered with these stores in the vicinity.

I think the only book store at the outlet mall is The Works Outlet, there was Blackwell Books over Christmas but that was just a temporary store for over the Christmas/ New Year period. Also I think with the uni campus opening they would need an academic book store to open near to the campus and Waterstones do alot of academic book stores.

There is already the huge Curry store at White City Retail Park, which kinda covers that area for electricals.

Also the Currys at White City will soon be refurbished to a Curry Megastore and the PC World down the road has recently been refurbished so I think the electricals sector is covered with these stores in the vicinity.

I think the only book store at the outlet mall is The Works Outlet, there was Blackwell Books over Christmas but that was just a temporary store for over the Christmas/ New Year period. Also I think with the uni campus opening they would need an academic book store to open near to the campus and Waterstones do alot of academic book stores.

Blackwells open Xmas stores in the Mall every year but I think we will see some kind of book store in media city or a WHSmiths with a good range. You need very high footfall for book stores.

Yes I suppose that is quite true uklad.

Well I know they have a blackwells book store on the main campus of Salford University next to HSBC and the Uni shop so i'm thinking there will more than likely be one for the new campus...

Blackwells open Xmas stores in the Mall every year but I think we will see some kind of book store in media city or a WHSmiths with a good range. You need very high footfall for book stores.

WH Smith already confirmed as to opening in MC

Hmmm, opening new bookshops, not a popular venture at the mo, unless your Waterstones (now that market domination Tesco would be proud of...). The trend for specialist/small bookshops is going in the opposite direction to what your wanting here. sorry. WH Smith might have a book section ;)

Hmmm, opening new bookshops, not a popular venture at the mo, unless your Waterstones (now that market domination Tesco would be proud of...). The trend for specialist/small bookshops is going in the opposite direction to what your wanting here. sorry. WH Smith might have a book section ;)

I agree I dont really think of Smiths as a book shop

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a bit late really...... but reasons to go to the Trafford centre as opposed to Manchester city
mamas and papas
puma
john lewis
hollister
just some of the shops I go to the TC for on the top of my head!!
also heard TC is gettig a GBK I know manchester has one but its a bit out of the way really.

then i could say go the city for shops tc doesent have, eg harvey nichols, emporio armani, house of fraser,flannels, ted baker and not that id ever shop there but primark.

a bit late really...... but reasons to go to the Trafford centre as opposed to Manchester city
mamas and papas
puma
john lewis
hollister
just some of the shops I go to the TC for on the top of my head!!
also heard TC is gettig a GBK I know manchester has one but its a bit out of the way really.

The trafford centre has its place, but town is still better. And who shops at holister? Its got to be the most pretentious shop ever, so dark in there you cant see what you are buying.

The trafford centre has its place, but town is still better. And who shops at holister? Its got to be the most pretentious shop ever, so dark in there you cant see what you are buying.

I heard a rumour they don't stock larger sizes because they don't want their brand on fat people, which says it all really!

The Armani store at 1 The Avenue showing some fit-out progress. The finished neon eagle should look quite striking from Deansgate.

http://tweetphoto.com/40866358

Nike are going to be refurbishing their store on Market Street again soon, to their new Nike Football concept.

http://img821.imageshack.us/img821/4033/nikefootballh.jpg

Beautyworx are now open on John Dalton Street.

Next door to Beautyworx on John Dalton Street, work seems to have started on fitting out that unit for the new tennant, no indication off who that will be yet.

Biba are opening exclusively at House of Fraser in September.

http://img832.imageshack.us/img832/1192/manchester315.jpg

Looks like Watches of Switzerland will be open by the end of this week or start of next.

http://img841.imageshack.us/img841/5282/manchester319.jpg

The W Collection have now opened at the Royal Exchange Arcade in the former Verve & Brite unit. http://www.wcollection.co.uk/

http://img243.imageshack.us/img243/2643/manchester320.jpg

Hoardings have now gone up around the former Heals unit on New Cathedral Street, and you can see that work is happening on all four floors of the unit.

http://img571.imageshack.us/img571/1382/manchester328.jpg

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Lush have now reopened on Market Street, after their store refurbishment.

http://img816.imageshack.us/img816/457/manchester329.jpg

Phones4U have opened a second store on Market Street, in the former Gamestation unit.

http://img193.imageshack.us/img193/3510/manchester330.jpg

Fossil is now reopen again in the Arndale.

The hoardings have now come down around the new unit for FM Boutique in the Arndale next to Poundland.

http://img823.imageshack.us/img823/125/manchester332.jpg

Thanks for the update Flange

I have to say its looking good on that part of the Arndale now that there will be fm boutique and hub opening soon... I still think poundland is abit out of place but better than empty units I guess.

Hoardings have now gone up around the former Heals unit on New Cathedral Street, and you can see that work is happening on all four floors of the unit.


So what's replacing Heals then?

Not sure if this has been mentioned but was passing through the Arndale and there is a large hoarding up advertising a new Wilkinson store on the upper floor by Halle Square. Not sure what used to be there.

Hoardings have now gone up around the former Heals unit on New Cathedral Street, and you can see that work is happening on all four floors of the unit.


So what's replacing Heals then?

Rumours are that it is going to be Hugo Boss, with Harvey Nichols taking some of the upper floors.

Not sure if this has been mentioned but was passing through the Arndale and there is a large hoarding up advertising a new Wilkinson store on the upper floor by Halle Square. Not sure what used to be there.

Thanks NQ Lee, that unit used to be the former Madhouse and before that the former New Look unit.

I bet that Wilkinsons will do really well in that unit, I know many people on here have wanted Wilkinsons to open in the city centre for a while now. I can imagine it will give Clas Ohlson some fair competition though, and The Hub some competition when they open in October.

looks like the Arndale will be more or less fully let before Xmas

Yes it does Neil, there quite a few new retailers opening in the Arndale soon.

Yours - Unknown unit?
http://www.yoursclothing.co.uk/
Luke - Unknown unit?
http://www.luke1977.com/
The Entertainer - Unknown unit?
http://www.thetoyshop.com/
Shakeaway - Former Gold Centre unit
http://www.shakeaway.com/
Jewel Nation - Former Diamonds & Pearls unit
http://www.jewelnation.co.uk/
Wilkinsons - Former Madhouse unit
http://www.wilkinsonplus.com/
The Hub - Empty/ New unit
http://www.hubretail.co.uk/
FM Boutique - Empty/ New unit
http://www.fmboutique.co.uk/

Possible empty units that Luke, The Entertainer and Yours could be

Former Envy unit.
Former Blooming Marvelous/ Ellie Gray unit.
Former The Lab unit.
Former Kitbag/ HMV unit.
Former The Vestry unit.
Former Faith unit.
Former Celebrate unit.

Republic are to open a new store in Wigan's Grand Arcade. They are taking the former Cushion Couture and Original Shoe Company units. This will leave the centre with only 2 of the centres smallest units to fill. Hoardings are now up and jobs have been advertised on the internet

http://www.jobisjob.co.uk/wigan/republic/jobs

Big Yellow Self Storage are opening a storage warehouse at the new industrial park that is being built opposite the Tesco Extra at the Portwood roundabout. http://www.bigyellow.co.uk/

KFC are going to be opening in half of the former Co-Op Travel store at the Peel Centre.

H&M are going to be opening in the former Borders unit at the Peel Centre.

River Island are apparently going to be relocating to the former Woolworths store at Merseyway Shopping Centre.

Primark are going to be taking over the Westgate department store at Merseyway Shopping Centre in the New Year.

A facebook campaign to get the Leigh-Trafford Centre bus route to operate later has apparently worked.
Last service used to be 6.15pm, now it will run till 10.15pm.

http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=30935422479#!/group.php?gid=30935422479&v=wall

Bemused it took a facebook campaign to get a leigh bus company to improve its trafford centre route, was blindingly obvious it needed to run later.

The new Holland and Barrett store at the Lowry Mall is almost ready for opening and will be marketed as H&B outlet...opens Weds 1st Sep 2010...

http://i581.photobucket.com/albums/ss255/trakkie/P8280523.jpg

Thanks WingTips.

So we have got two weeks of new store openings at the Lowry Outlet Mall, this week with H&B Outlet opening on Wednesday 1st Septemeber, and the week after, the big one that is Gap Outlet opening on Wednesday 8th September.

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Could have been worse in all honesty. At least it's going to be refurbished.

South Manchester Reporter.

Sainsbury’s plan for derelict pub approved

http://m.gmgrd.co.uk/res/669.$plit/C_71_article_1315179_image_list_image_list_item_0_image.jpg?26%2F08%2F2010%2010%3A23%3A22%3A098

Shoppers are a step nearer to getting a Sainsbury’s in Withington after the council gave plans to convert a derelict pub the thumbs up.

Councillors said they were minded to approve proposals to turn the former White Lion on Wilmslow Road into a supermarket with six flats above.

Final details need to be hammered out and full approval will be given subject to talks over opening hours and the refurbishment of the Grade II listed building’s clock as a working timepiece. The vote at a meeting of the planning committee on Thursday, August 19, has been welcomed by Withington Civic Society.

Chairman Roger Smith said they were pleased with the decision.

He said: "It’s a ‘win-win’ situation as it will bring an imposing Grade II-listed building in the Withington Conservation Area back into use after standing derelict for three years with many of its important features being restored.

"It will provide much-needed shopping facilities that will complement the other shops in the village centre, encouraging more people to come to Withington."

Developers The Brook-house Group want to demolish a single-storey extension at the rear of the property at the junction of Wilmslow Road with Burton Road and create a two-storey extension, with 17 parking spaces. They also want listed building consent to upgrade some stone columns and railings.

A Sainsbury’s spokesperson said: "We are delighted to be investing in the area, bringing new jobs and improved shopping choice to the community, in a landmark building that is being regenerated after years of disuse."

But independent traders were disappointed.

Shumaila Malik, who runs nearby Costcutters, said: "I think there will be closures of smaller shops."

I feel sorry for the residents of Withington.

The traffic this will cause around an already very busy junction, well you can imagine.

^^ Don't think it will cause to much of a traffic problem. It's one of those 'Local' stores, anybody with a car will go to Tesco at East Didsbury or the proper Sainsbury's in Fallowfield. I reckon most customers will get there on foot (and most of them being students, as they get off the Magic Bus).

Business Desk.

MANCHESTER'S retail market has been identified as one of only three areas in the country that remain attractive to investors, according to new research.

A Fair Value report by DTZ identifying investment opportunities for investors named the city's retail market as one of only three "Hot" markets in the UK.

It argues that the city's retail offer, alongside the retail market in London's West End and the office market in the City, are the only areas in the UK that remain undervalued and offer the best prospect of long-term returns for fund managers.

DTZ's report argued that investment opportunities in UK regional markets have dried up and that the country has a higher share of overpriced "Cold" markets than either Europe, Asia Pacific or the US.

The firm's Manchester-based investment director Craig Barton said the Index was "very encouraging" for the city.

"We believe that the Manchester retail market will out-perform over the medium term, reflecting its strength as the leading retail market in the UK regions. We are seeing a stabilising of retail rental levels in 2010 in prime locations and would hope to see some sustained growth from 2011.

“Conversely, Manchester’s office and industrial sectors are currently rated below fair value by the index, confirming that the rapid bounce back that followed the unprecedented declines in market values has now run its course."

Cupcake shop called 'And the Dish Ran Away with the Spoon' is opening in West Didsbury, next to Belly Button on Burton Road. Currently being fitted out.

http://www.dishandspoonfood.co.uk/

GAP Outlet and Holland & Barrett are the latest signings confirmed for the Lowry Outlet Mall in Salford Quays, Greater Manchester.

Centre manager Rob Hallworth: "This is all positive news for the Mall ahead of entering the busy Christmas season. We are delighted to have secured Gap Outlet and H&B Outlet. Gap Outlet in particular is a destination retailer, appealing to a wide section of people, which we believe will attract shoppers from across the Northwest region."

The 8,000 sq ft Gap shop will occupy a ground floor unit adjacent to Cadbury’s Factory Outlet, and opposite the Suits You store, which moved to make room for Gap which opens on September 8. Holland & Barrett will begin trading on September 1, under the name H&B Outlet.

The Lowry Outlet Mall said it is in on-going negotiations with a number of other retailers, including footwear and homeware shops. It said the signings followed another strong month for the Mall with year-on-year sales up 2% and footfall up 3%.

http://www.thebusinessdesk.com/northwest/news/

http://www.thebusinessdesk.com/northwest/news/

Think they need to be quicker off the mark with their news than this ...:nuts:

The Harvey Nichols Foodmarket will be reopening at the Trafford Centre in October for the Christmas period like last year.

From Rigby & Peller, "'We looked at sites in Manchester and Leeds but the locations were not good enough. We are almost arrogant about who we have as our neighbours."

The latest is that Armani will be the 1st store to open on The Avenue (provisionally 23rd Sept).
It seems unlikely that any others will open prior to late September. In doing so, they could lose out on the Labour Party Conference business!

From Rigby & Peller, "'We looked at sites in Manchester and Leeds but the locations were not good enough. We are almost arrogant about who we have as our neighbours."

The latest is that Armani will be the 1st store to open on The Avenue (provisionally 23rd Sept).
It seems unlikely that any others will open prior to late September. In doing so, they could lose out on the Labour Party Conference business!

All the windows are now fitted on the Crown Square side. Fit out seems to be progressing at a fast rate inside.

^^ Is that for the new Flannels unit Seasonedbest?

Once the shopfronts get installed the shopfit of alot of the stores will get done pretty quickly I would think, it is amazing how quickly some shops can get fitted out really.

^^ Is that for the new Flannels unit Seasonedbest?

Once the shopfronts get installed the shopfit of alot of the stores will get done pretty quickly I would think, it is amazing how quickly some shops can get fitted out really.

Yep thats the one. I work in 3 Hardman Street and often go for a wander over to the window to look down at the progress. The windows look suprisingly good - very similar to New Cathedral Street. They've had a huge delivery of what looks to be granite paving stones, and insulation? I'm not too sure.

http://www.placenorthwest.co.uk/assets/_files/cached/img/402x267.8953125/sep_10/pnw__1283433231_Market_kiosks_1,_Wythenshawe.jpg

2 Sep 2010, 14:24

Developer St Modwen has completed seven market kiosks in Wythenshawe as part of its ongoing regeneration work in the town centre.

Six of the units on The Birtles have been let with the final unit expected to be let in the near future. The traders operating out of the new kiosks are Baker's Den, Tolmanis Beauty, the Fone Hive, jewellery retailer and repairer Jems and Jenny's Nailbar.

The new accommodation replaces of a number of kiosks which were lost during the demolition of the Violet and Park Court flats in 2007.

St Modwen's Wythenshawe town centre manager, Victoria Nichol, said: "The centre is really going from strength to strength at the moment and this new accommodation further expands the retail offer we are providing for our shoppers.

"We are working hard to ensure that we create a pleasant and safe environment for people to visit and have a number of exciting events lined up to bring more activity and new customers into Wythenshawe."

St Modwen took ownership of the town centre in 1996 and embarked on a £100m regeneration project in partnership with Manchester City Council.

Pre-lets have been secured with Wilkinson and Netto to anchor the Etrop Court phase of development which is currently under construction and expect to open in summer 2011.

http://www.placenorthwest.co.uk/news/archive/7064-st-modwen-hands-over-replacement-kiosks.html

Yep thats the one. I work in 3 Hardman Street and often go for a wander over to the window to look down at the progress. The windows look suprisingly good - very similar to New Cathedral Street. They've had a huge delivery of what looks to be granite paving stones, and insulation? I'm not too sure.

Cool, thanks Seasonedbest, might go have a mooch around The Avenue on Tuesday to see how the progress is going on.

I imagine the granite stones are for the footpath that will be on the side of Flannels so The Avenue can connect to what will be the future retail arcade at Manchester House.

Hopefully they will sort out something to hide what will be the site of 1 Crown Square for when The Avenue is fully open to the public, that or they turf it over like they have done with the other unbuilt on plots so far.