The launch will see the brand triple its footprint at Bluewater to 132,000 sq ft, creating one of NEXT’s largest stores in the UK, and introducing a new anchor brand to the Kent shopping destination for the first time since its opening in 1999.
The state-of-the-art store will offer an enhanced product selection, including premium men's, women’s, and childrenswear, alongside an expanded homeware department and an in-store Costa café. As part of the expansion, global beauty brand, Bath & Body Works, will also relocate into a neighbouring 2,000 sq ft store.
To celebrate the opening, the first 150 customers will receive exclusive goody bags, with a live DJ providing the soundtrack throughout the day. Family-friendly entertainment, including face painting and appearances from NEXT’s mascot, Hamish the Highland Cow will also take place throughout the opening weekend.
James Waugh, Centre Director at Bluewater, commented: “There has been huge anticipation around the opening of NEXT’s new store, so we’re delighted to confirm that it will be opening its doors later this month.
“As our first new anchor store since Bluewater launched in 1999, this expansion is a landmark moment for us. NEXT’s investment reinforces Bluewater’s position as a leading UK retail destination and highlights the continued strength and confidence we’re seeing in bricks-and-mortar retail. We look forward to welcoming guests across the opening weekend and beyond.”
Terry Wetherell, Store Manager: "We're incredibly excited to be opening the LARGEST store across the NEXT portfolio at Bluewater Shopping Centre. We can't wait to showcase a broader range of our products and introduce new brands to the centre and our customers. This has been a fantastic project to be involved in and I'm super grateful for the support, dedication and hard work of so many colleagues across the business who helped make the store opening a success."
For more information, please visit www.bluewater.co.uk.
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