M&G Real Estate, one of the UK’s largest property investors, has secured two new global brands for The Friary, Guildford.
US denim giant Levi’s has signed to open its first Guildford store at The Friary while jeweller Pandora will relocate from the town’s high street to the shopping centre. Levi’s and Pandora are set to open 2,034 sq ft and 1,233 sq ft stores respectively.
Both brands have experienced exceptional success in the UK market and have chosen The Friary to capitalise on the centre’s uplift in sales performance, which saw an increase of 24 per cent in the first half of 2016.
Meanwhile, M&G Real Estate is in discussions with a strong new brand for the current Pandora store on the high street which it hopes to be able to announce in the coming weeks.
Scott Linard, Director of Asset Management & Leasing for M&G Real Estate, commented: “The arrival of Levi’s and Pandora at The Friary is another step change for the shopping centre, further elevating its premium tenant mix. We continue to employ a proactive asset management strategy to reinforce The Friary’s status as the region’s leading fashion destination and continued strong levels of tenant interest mean we expect to announce further exciting lettings in the near future.”
The news follows the recent announcement that Zara Home, The Fragrance Shop, and sushi and hot food restaurant Kokoro have signed up to join The Friary. They will join some of the most popular international and national brands including Zara, Superdry, River Island, Topshop and Urban Outfitters.
Lunson Mitchenall and Time Retail Partners acted for M&G Real Estate.
Stephen Kane & Co acted for Pandora and Strutt & Parker LLP acted for Levi’s.
