Massive new Dunelm store is opening in former Debenhams
HOMEWARE CHAIN BOOSTS FLEMINGATE’S OFFERING
BEVERLEY’S Flemingate shopping centre is to receive a huge boost as a homeware giant moves into the former Debenhams store.
Dunelm, the UK’S largest homeware retailer, has signed a ten-year lease on the two-storey former department store and will be bringing its new superstore format.
The new store is expected to create around 40 jobs and will open just in time for Christmas.
Dominic Gibbons, managing director of Wykeland Group, which owns Flemingate, said: “We’re delighted to announce Dunelm, one of the country’s leading retailers, is bringing its exciting new superstore format to Flemingate and that the former Debenhams store will once again be fully occupied.
“The closure of Debenhams created a highly desirable retail opportunity in a prime location within a vibrant destination and we were always confident of attracting a high-quality new operator.
“We’ve now delivered on that confidence.
“Dunelm’s commitment reflects the strength of Flemingate and also the appeal of Beverley as a prosperous and growing retail and leisure marketplace.”
Steve Barton, Dunelm’s director of property, said: “Our new Flemingate store will have everything needed to help savvy customers refresh and revamp their homes, from simple haberdashery items to stylish and highly affordable furniture.”
The Debenhams store at Flemingate shut in May this year, after the department store chain went into administration.
The new Dunelm store, which will be fitted out in the next couple of weeks, will feature departments of the homeware brand including curtains to cookshop, Made to Measure and a Decorate & Co-ordinate department.
Dunelm’s own Pausa coffee shop will also be within the store, serving freshly-ground Arabica coffee and a range of sandwiches, cakes and treats to shoppers.
Jump Inc also took over and relaunched Flemingate’s trampoline playground in September.
The announcement of Dunelm’s arrival means that Flemingate’s shop fronts are now almost fully let.
It follows on from the opening of a joint Sports Direct and streetwear and fashion brand USC outlet at the shopping complex in August.
David Donkin, Wykeland property director, said: “Football is already running at 20 per cent ahead of the equivalent period before the pandemic and Dunelm will give those numbers a big boost.
“We’re looking forward to a very busy Christmas shopping season and 2022 is set to be a very exciting year for Flemingate.”