Retail in Sunderland has received a boost, as leading store Next today (27 July) opens its new, expanded store.
The company has taken over the vacant unit beside its existing store at the Bridges, increasing the store size from 10,221 sq ft to 14,710 sq ft.
And from today shoppers will be able to enjoy the first stage of this expansion, with the new unit housing a much larger childrenswear section on the ground floor.
Further work is also underway to create an extended homewares section, which should be opening in around four to five weeks’ time.
The leading retailer confirmed earlier this year its plan for a larger presence in Sunderland, providing a major boost to the city centre.
Duncan Allen, Building and Services Director at the Bridges said the larger store was excellent news for both the centre and the city as a whole.
“Next is an extremely popular store and it’s fantastic to see the confidence this major retailer has had in Sunderland with its expansion plans,” he said.
“It’s great news in the light of the challenging time retail has had generally over the last few months and further confirmation that the Bridges is continuing to have a positive impact on the local economy.
“It’s an additional incentive for shoppers to come to the centre, particularly as there will now be an even wider range of items for them to choose from.”