Sephora continues UK retail roll-out with new store in Newcastle

Sephora is continuing its UK retail store roll-out with a new opening planned for the Eldon Square retail destination in Newcastle later this year.

Since announcing its planned return to the UK market, LVMH-owned Sephora has opened retail stores in Westfield London and Westfield Stratford City (main image) and is also planning to open in Manchester's Trafford Centre this summer.

The opening date of the Eldon Square store has not yet been revealed but the beauty retailer has taken a 6,600 sq ft unit in the scheme.

The news of its planned arrival in Newcastle comes as Eldon Square and Newcastle City Council announce details of an enhanced Co-operation Agreement and "game-changing planning submissions", which hope to accelerate and facilitate the delivery of a series of major new leasing deals, of which Sephora is one.

Planned enhancements for Eldon Square

Enhancements submitted in the plans for the Eldon Square development include over 200,000 sq ft of new leisure and entertainment opportunities, serving the city centre, including a roof-top terrace with retractable roof. Eldon Square is already home to more than 140 retailers, including John Lewis & Partners, Fenwick, Apple, Boots, H&M and NEXT.

High street giant NEXT also has big plans for Eldon Square and will be taking over a 61,000 sq ft former Debenhams unit, enabling it to bring its home and beauty concept to the city.

Jayne Pushon of NEXT, said: "We are very excited to be launching a new large format store in Newcastle and look forward to welcoming more customers to Eldon Square. We are delighted to be able to introduce customers to our new home and beauty department, where we will have staff on hand to talk more about our exciting product ranges in the new store."

Pete Cooper, Director at Eldon Square Ltd, said of the signings: "With these deals, Eldon Square consolidates its position as a Premier League player in Newcastle city centre and our flourishing partnership with Newcastle City Council enables us to progress our ambitious growth plans at speed. We are accelerating the centre’s performance, whilst helping to widen the city centre’s leisure and entertainment offering."

Cllr Nick Kemp, Leader of Newcastle City Council, added: "This exciting announcement shows just how attractive Newcastle is for global retailers. It is a vote of confidence in our city centre and a statement of intent by the retail industry.  

"Not only will the opening of these stores attract more visitors to our city but it will create jobs and boost our economy. We will work with partners to create more opportunities in Newcastle, that help grow an inclusive economy to benefit every resident."