Retailer thinks outside the box to open first store in mall

THE Metrocentre has revealed news to make outdoor enthusiasts happy campers – an opening date for the retailer taking on the old Wilko store.

The huge unit at the Gateshead shopping centre has been empty since last summer, when Wilko collapsed and brought the shutters down on its shops.

However, GO Outdoors announced it was planning to stage a UK first at the Metrocentre, by opening its inaugural store within a shopping centre. The leading outdoor clothing and equipment retailer signed up for the large, 20,242 sq ft unit within the Blue Mall, with recruitment starting almost immediately – and the opening date has now been revealed.

The new GO Outdoors Express store will open in the week starting April 29, stocking its range of brands, such as Rab, OEX and Berghaus, as well as a full range of footwear, camping equipment, outdoor clothing and equipment for every activity.

The opening has created 22 new jobs, with staff ready to provide specialist services including boot and rucksack fitting.

The store will offer collection and drop-off points for parcels from online orders and customers can also browse the full GO Outdoors range via in-store ordering, available for home delivery.

Store manager Ross Mcdonald said: “We are delighted and proud to open our new GO Outdoors Express store in the Metrocentre. We have had a fantastic couple of years at GO, as more and more people are reaping the benefits of the outdoors for their physical and mental well-being, and this new store is the outcome of that.”

The opening follows news of Procook’s imminent arrival, and the relocation of Clarks and Victoria’s Secret, as well as Primark’s expansion and tech giant EE opening a new store.