British Land has secured 11 new lettings totalling nearly 2601m2 (28,000ft2) at Meadowhall, the UK’s fourth largest shopping centre and Yorkshire’s premier retail destination.
The lettings follow Meadowhall’s recent 25th birthday celebrations and the launch of a £50m internal refurbishment of the centre which began in late September.
Changes within the centre include: new stores from fashion retailers Jack Wills, Diesel, Michael Kors and Joules; unit extensions from jewellery brand Goldsmiths with a new Goldsmiths Boutique store including a Rolex concession; international cosmetic and beauty offerings from Kiko Milano, Lush and L’Occitane; Build-a-Bear’s debut of their new style shop fit in the UK and restaurants Tapas Revolution and Five Guys.
The deals are testament to the quality of Meadowhall as a retail destination with the highest retail conversion rate of any of super regional in the country (97%). A number of the lettings are located within the Park Lane area of the centre which received a £3m refresh last year. This was part of the continuous investment and active asset management that has led to consistent year-on-year outperformance of Meadowhall.
British Land is currently in discussions with other premium retailers and it is anticipated that more brands will sign up over the coming months. The White Company, White Stuff, Cadenzza and Jigsaw all opened at Meadowhall this year taking on 10-year leases in the newly-refurbished Park Lane area.
Richard Crowther, asset manager, British Land said: “This impressive list of new lettings is further evidence of how investing in our assets yields results, and is testament to our strong relationships with retailers. The success of the Park Lane refurbishment gives us confidence that the centre wide works will further position Meadowhall as a leading shopping destination and will ensure we meet the evolving needs of our occupiers and shoppers.”
The internal refurbishment which comprises 310 shops, 50 restaurants and cafes and a multi-screen cinema, is due for completion by the end of 2017. The extensive works will create distinct districts within the centre, each with a different finish including wood and punctured metal. The refurbishment includes new way finding, mall seating and lighting as well as the installation of dramatic lighting artwork. It is expected to significantly enhance the centre and ensure Meadowhall remains a modern shopping environment for both retailers and consumers.
