Next to open upsized store at Bluewater
Next is to open an upsized store featuring a new design concept at the Bluewater shopping centre in Kent.
The new shop will measure 44,226 square feet after two additional units are amalgamated into Next’s existing space.
The creation of a larger store also coincides with the introduction of Next’s latest store design concept, elements of which will be rolled out elsewhere in Next’s portfolio.
Next plans to completely reconfigure the Bluewater store and will significantly increase the sales area. A key feature of the design, which has been developed by Next in conjunction with Bluewater’s retail design and delivery team, will be the use of natural light. The southern elevation of the store will have a section of full-height structural glazing, the first time the external fabric of Bluewater has been changed in this way. The glass will flood light into both levels of the store while providing views of Bluewater’s chalk cliffs.
Never Miss a Retail Update!Next’s plans also include Lipsy relocating from its current location within Bluewater to become a store-within-a-store, with its own entrance on upper Thames Walk.
Work begins this month and will be undertaken in a series of phases, with the transformation due to be completed by the summer. Coinciding with Next’s upsize, Hotel Chocolat and Thomas Cook have relocated to larger stores, with their former stores being integrated in the new Next.
Russell Loveland, portfolio director at Land Securities, said: “The creation of a new store for Next is consistent with our strategy of ensuring Bluewater offers not only the very best mix of leading UK and international brands, but unique concepts. We have worked closely with Next on the design for this store, particularly on delivering the vision for natural light to play such a key role in the experience. Next’s new Bluewater store will be the perfect showcase for the brand.”
