Sovereign Centros has signed Australia-based retailer Harvey Norman for 57,000 sq ft of the former Debenhams department store at Merry Hill shopping centre in the West Midlands.
The lifestyle, technology and entertainment retailer has more than 300 stores across eight countries. The deal marks its debut in England, having previously opened two stores in Northern Ireland.
Harvey Norman will join Germany-based fitness operator Xtrafit at the former department store. Due to open in the summer, Xtrafit will take 40,000 sq ft of the first floor, offering premium fitness at an accessible price point.
Graeme Jones, director at Sovereign Centros, said: “Attracting an international retail giant like Harvey Norman to Merry Hill, alongside a UK debut for fitness operator Xtrafit, provides Merry Hill with a comprehensive solution for the former Debenhams, one that no other destination in the country has. Harvey Norman will bring dedicated visits and benefit from our engaged and loyal catchment, and we look forward to introducing its accessible, high-quality offer, within a brand experience completely unique to Merry Hill.”
Katie Page, chief executive at Harvey Norman, said: “With its exceptional connectivity and a population around the same size as New Zealand – where we have 42 stores – it’s clear that the West Midlands represents a significant growth opportunity for Harvey Norman.
“We have been in the UK for many years with two stores in Northern Ireland, so we look forward to opening our new flagship store in Merry Hill later this year.”
JLL, Time Retail Partners and Font Real Estate represented Merry Hill. Colliers and Blake & Coates advised Harvey Norman.
More lettings in the West Midlands >>
To send feedback, e-mail pui-guan.man@eg.co.uk or tweet @PuiGuanM or @EGPropertyNews
