SGS UK Retail has let a 15,592 sq ft unit at Harlequin Watford to immersive gaming concept Activate.
The fast-growing competitive socialising brand’s newest location is launched by experiential leisure operator We Do Play, the group behind Flip Out, the UK’s largest trampoline and indoor park operator, which is also located at Harlequin.
The new Activate venue will combine immersive gaming with technology-driven challenges, designed for groups of visitors to move through a series of interactive game rooms.
Richard Beese, co-founder of We Do Play, said: “Watford is a thriving, well-connected town with a strong retail and leisure offer, making Harlequin a natural choice for Activate. Retail destinations that invest in immersive leisure experiences are encouraging increased dwell time and repeat visits, particularly among younger audiences and families. Activate is designed to tap into that demand with a high-energy, bookable experience that delivers something genuinely different.”
Robert Jewell, managing director of asset management at Pradera, which asset manages the centre on behalf of SGS UK Retail, added: “Harlequin has evolved into far more than a traditional shopping destination, and the signing of Activate will continue the momentum of bringing fresh and contemporary concepts that complement the centre’s growing leisure and hospitality offer. This is another strong example of our long-term strategy coming to life, creating more reasons for visitors to stay longer, spend more and return more frequently.”
Time Retail and LM are Harlequin’s retail leasing agents and Metis and LM lead the leisure leasing. LM acted for Activate.
