Woking’s Victoria Place is set to be the home of hmv’s newest store. The music and entertainment retailer returns to the destination this month in the 3,982sq ft former Topshop store at 46-47 Jubilee Mall in the Peacocks Centre, which was recently acquired by Arora. The announcement marks an important milestone for Victoria Place as the initiative approaches one year since its official launch, since which it has welcomed a number of leading retail and F&B brands.
Phil Halliday, managing director at hmv, commented: “hmv has a long history of offering performances from grassroots artists and bands in its stores through the hmv Live & Local programme and we’re looking forward to continuing this tradition in Woking at Victoria Place, showcasing some of the best talent the area has to offer.”
The news of hmv’s return to Victoria Place follows a sustained stream of success at the £700m regeneration scheme as it celebrates one year since its launch in 2022. The signing of the popular music and entertainment retailer is preceded by the arrival of several key brands, including formalwear specialist Moss Bros., footwear retailer Skechers and artisan bakery GAIL’s.
Councillor Ann-Marie Barker, leader of Woking Borough Council, added: “Victoria Place puts the community first, and the addition of hmv is no exception to that. It is important to us to cater to all of a consumer’s needs, and the series of leading brands that have committed to the destination since its launch last year is evidence of our dedication to revitalising the town centre. We are proud of Victoria Place’s sustained success and look forward to seeing the destination continue to evolve into a diverse and popular retail and leisure destination.”
Sanjay Arora, chief operating officer and head of property at Arora, said: “We are thrilled to have hmv joining the Peacocks Centre. As the proud new owners of the centre, we look forward to welcoming in many more brands such as hmv to enhance the customer’s shopping experience and to make Woking a desirable choice for shoppers.”
The news of hmv’s signing also follows the recent announcement that Lark London, the independent lifestyle boutique, is set to open this month in Victoria Place. The arrival marks the brand’s first store outside the capita and the continued commitment of brands’ regional debuts and flagship stores at the destination showcases it as a key hub for leading retail, leisure and hospitality options.
JLL and Nash Bond acted for Victoria Place.
