Manchester Arndale has announced that Sports Direct will be doubling the size of its space at the retail destination after the UK sportswear giant signed a new 15-year lease for a flagship store.
The deal will see Sports Direct relocate from its current 29,000 sq ft unit on the lower ground floor to the former BHS space which comprises five floors of 58,500 sq ft.
The larger store, set to open in late 2022, will see it incorporate its collection of brands including USC, Game, Evans Cycles, and Belong esports arena, all under one roof.
As well as signing Sports Direct, Manchester Arndale also added Paperchase to its tenant line-up, with the international stationary store moving into a 1,000 sq ft unit.
Scott Linard, portfolio director at M&G Real Estate, said: “Despite the challenges faced by the retail industry over the past few years, Manchester Arndale has remained resilient throughout the pandemic, completing 25 new leases throughout 2020 and 2021.
“We are therefore delighted that Sports Direct have not only chosen to commit its long-term future to the centre, but also double the size of its store.”
Metis Real Estate and Time Retail Partners are Manchester Arndale’s retained letting agents.
