Westfield centres say trend for larger and better flagship stores continues
Westfield London and Westfield Stratford City have seen a number of retailers agree deals for store upsizes this year including the likes of Nike, Apple, Gucci, Tommy Hilfiger, Footlocker and Pull & Bear.
Nike has almost tripled the size of its store in Westfield London to 17,000 square feet while Gucci has doubled its footprint for its permanent store in the centre’s The Village.
Kate Orwin, leasing director at Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield UK, said: “Brands are choosing to upsize in the best locations, as we have seen with the Nike Rise store and the expansion of Gucci at The Village Westfield London, representing a broader trend among retailers. As these retailers invest in integrated digital and physical experiences, their focus has shifted from pure sales generation to creating a sense of community and connection for consumers which ultimately drives brand loyalty.”
Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield UK said the trend to take larger and better spaces has not been limited to the UK with Zara opening its largest store in Europe at Westfield Les 4 Temps in Paris last year. In addition, H&M will extend its footprint at the centre and Bershka will expand in Villeneuve 2.
The two Westfield centres have also seen an increased number of up-and-coming brands, particularly in the food and beverage sector, sign new leases this year. More than 30 new tenants have agreed to take space at the centres so far in 2022 as a means of building closer connections with their target audiences.
Orwin added: “Seeing so many new and existing retailers, restaurants and entertainment concepts investing with us is a testament to the continued strength of the Westfield brand and the increased value being placed on visiting physical destinations. We are proud to be the destination of choice for the best flagships and new concepts which ultimately create the best experiences for our customers.”
