Aesop heads North for the first time with newest apothecary in Leeds

Aesop, the skincare brand which has developed a cult following for its apothecary-style packing and intoxicating fragrances, is finally heading up North of England with its first store set to open at Victoria Leeds.

Measuring 753 sq ft, the store is set to open in January 2025. It will showcase Aesop’s full range of fragrance, skin, hair and body care formulations.

The Australian beauty brand was founded in 1987 and has become synonymous with minimalistic luxury and botanical skincare. Renowned for its beautifully designed stores and apothecary-style packaging, Aesop emphasizes the use of high-quality natural ingredients in its range as well as championing sustainability.

As a Certified B Corporation, Aesop is dedicated to sustainability and local engagement. The Victoria Leeds store will honour the heritage of the Grade II listed space while reflecting Aesop’s craftsmanship and ethical ethos. With the new store, the brand continues to champion its localised design concept to create thoughtful spaces and customer experiences, whether in the UK or globally.

Ryad Djellas, General Manager of Aesop, European Zone, said: "The experience within any Aesop store, and our relationship with our customers, is never a simply transactional one: it is also educational, prescriptive, and sensorial.

"We have been eager to open our first signature store in the North for some time now and were delighted when the opportunity within the historied County Arcade presented itself. The design of our spaces matters deeply to us. We aim to create something of merit, connected to the context of the Arcade. We hope to weave ourselves into the fabric of Leeds and look forward to welcoming customers in the new year."

Rachel Bradburn, Leasing Director at Victoria Leeds, added: "Aesop choosing Victoria Leeds for their first store in the North of England strengthens our position as the premier destination for luxury brands.

"It’s a testament to our discerning customer base, but also to Aesop’s thoughtful approach in selecting locations where they can integrate seamlessly into the local community. We’re excited to see their unique store design come to life when the store opens, further enhancing our distinctive retail offering."

With a mission to expand its store footprint, earlier this year, Aesop also opened a new space in London's Islington. Taking inspiration from Upper Street’s long-standing history as a "bustling commercial thoroughfare", the space enfolds past and present together, with a plasterwork French baroque style façade, patinated brass elements, and salvaged cast iron lamp posts.