River Island is set to relocate and upsize into the vacant Topshop unit in Eldon Square with a new “digital first” store.
A Newcastle City Council report in June last year revealed that River Island was set to make the move, with the fashion retailer moving to the other side of St Andrews Way. Its new location comes in at more than 20,000 sqft, and bosses are promising an “enhanced shopping experience”, featuring curated collections, digital fitting rooms and a brand new look.
The fashion chain has already “upgraded and optimised” its 17,000sqft store in the MetroCentre in Gateshead, which it unveiled in November. The new Newcastle store is set to follow that trend and will have exclusive product edits, specialist sections, and next generation tech which will enable customers to order items in-store or for home delivery.
The “digital first” extends to the fitting rooms, where products will be identified on entry for ease of purchase. Customers can use a touch screen interface to ask for more sizes, choose alternative styles, or get help from staff in store. Bosses say this approach has been “designed to reinvigorate the high street”.
Gemma Scarfe, digital & marketing director at River Island, said: “Newcastle has been a beacon of cultural dynamism in the last decade, drawing in investment and shaping itself as a premier destination, and we are excited to be part of that story. Our new store promises to redefine the shopping experience for our customers, enriching their journey through our brand amidst the vibrancy of this thriving city.”
Pete Cooper at XPE Group PLC, majority owner of Eldon Square, said that River Island’s expansion “represents a significant milestone in Newcastle’s retail landscape.” He added: “As Eldon Square continues to evolve with strategic developments like Next and Sephora, we’re excited to contribute to the region’s thriving retail ecosystem.”
An exact date has not been given for the opening of the new River Island store, with billboards outside the store saying: “See you soon”.
It is one of a series of changes for the city centre shopping destination, after new rooftop music, food and entertainment destination Freight Island was announced on Wednesday morning. A “super” Next is set to move into the former Debenham’s department store, also on St Andrews Way, this summer; while chicken chain Wingstop is set to open in the former George’s British Kitchen on Monday, February 10.
View news Source: https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/news/north-east-news/eldon-square-river-island-topshop-30940243
