Lifestyle, technology and entertainment retailer Harvey Norman has signed for 57,000 sq ft at Merry Hill shopping centre.
The retailer, which has more than 300 stores globally, has taken space in the former Debenhams unit and its new store will stock a selection of luxury furniture and homeware products.
German experience and community driven fitness operator Xtrafit signed for 40,000 sq ft on the first floor of the former Debenhams store last year. It is due to open for business in the summer.
Katie Page, CEO of Harvey Norman, said: “With its exceptional connectivity and a population around the same size as New Zealand – where we have 42 stores – it’s clear that the West Midlands represents a significant growth opportunity for Harvey Norman. We have been in the UK for many years with two stores in Northern Ireland, so we look forward to opening our new flagship store in Merry Hill later this year.”
Graeme Jones, director at Merry Hill’s asset manager Sovereign Centros, added: “Attracting an international retail giant like Harvey Norman to Merry Hill, alongside a UK debut for fitness operator Xtrafit, provides Merry Hill with a comprehensive solution for the former Debenhams, one that no other destination in the country has. Harvey Norman will bring dedicated visits and benefit from our engaged and loyal catchment, and we look forward to introducing its accessible, high-quality offer, within a brand experience completely unique to Merry Hill.”
JLL, Time Retail Partners and Font Real Estate represented Merry Hill. Colliers and Blake & Coates represented Harvey Norman.
