Land Securities has secured Primark to occupy a new anchor store at its successful Westwood Cross shopping and leisure center in Thanet, East Kent.
This is the fifth major deal that Land Securities has closed with Primark in the past 10 months. The deals together total over 430,000 ft² (approx. 40,000 m²) gross, a significant achievement in the existing challenging retail market.
In addition to the new Thanet store (70,000 ft²), Primark has also signed up with Land Securities to move into new stores in Oxford Street (London), Trinity Leeds, The Centre in Livingston and The Bridges in Sunderland.
The major clothing brand will trade its latest fashion over two levels in a new anchor store adjacent to TK Maxx.
Land Securities' Portfolio Director for Westwood Cross, Hermione Mackrill, said: "We're very pleased to have secured Primark in Westwood Cross in Thanet. The new major store will be a great addition to the center and will build on the already attractive variety of shops. Primark is a hugely popular brand and will be a magnet drawing shoppers to our retail and leisure center.
"This deal really demonstrates our strong relationship with Primark and we're excited to help deliver growth for Primark in a tough retail climate."
Land Securities expects to start work on the extension of the center in the summer this year following the recent planning resolution by Thanet District Council.
Jones Lang Lasalle acted on behalf of Land Securities and Hartnell Taylor Cook represented Primark.
Westwood Cross is 421,000 ft² with four anchor stores (Next, Debenhams, TK Maxx and Marks & Spencer) and 49 retail and leisure units (multiplex cinema, hotel, restaurants, a casino and bingo hall).
Source: Land Securities
