Fashion label connects with the city again

FRENCH Connection has returned to Manchester city centre with the launch of its new northern flagship shop.

The fashion brand has opened a new store inside the Royal Exchange building, close to its original Manchester base on the corner of St Ann’s Square, which closed last January.

The shop will stock French Connection’s full womenswear and men’s clothing range, including its premium collection, which has previously only been available in its Oxford Street shop in London and online.

Bosses say it represents the city’s reputation as an important destination for fashion retail.

The Manchester shop will also stock a small range of homeware and will be the first to feature the retailer’s new design concept, with modern and minimal interiors making use of sustainable materials.

A French Connection spokeswoman said: “We are very excited to be returning to Manchester and the Royal Exchange location provides us with a prime retail space in the city.

“We already know the demand for French Connection amongst local customers, which has continued over the past two years via our ecommerce and local concession channels.”

The brand is showing its support for Manchester with the launch of a bee charm necklace, which will be on sale from November 15 in aid of the We Love Manchester appeal.

French Connection has signed a 10-year lease on the unit.