Dunelm has recently launched its new outlet at Atria Watford. This launch marks the brand’s 182nd store and represents its first foray into a shopping centre location. The new store is situated in the space previously occupied by John Lewis.
Occupying a 33,000 sq ft area, the new Dunelm store offers an extensive range of products. The collection spans various categories such as bedding, outdoor living, home accessories, made-to-measure items, haberdashery, and kitchen and dining essentials.
A key feature of this new store is Dunelm’s commitment to sustainability. This is evident in their ‘Conscious Choice’ range, which boasts products made from at least 50% recycled materials. Additionally, the store will continue the company’s ‘Textile Takeback’ scheme, encouraging customers to return unwanted textile items for recycling or redistribution, aligning with Dunelm’s environmental goals.
Atria Watford, the location of the new Dunelm store, is owned by property company SGS and asset managed by Global Mutual, with Savills serving as the property managers. The centre, covering 1.4 million sq ft, is located in Watford, a prosperous area near Greater London.
The centre hosts a diverse array of brands, ranging from small independent shops to well-established household names. Among the notable tenants are Zara, M&S, Primark, JD Sports, Apple, and Next, contributing to the rich shopping experience at Atria Watford.
Amanda Cox, Stores & People Director at Dunelm, expressed enthusiasm about the new store opening. She noted that while any new store launch is a positive development, the opening in Watford is especially significant as it marks Dunelm’s first shopping centre-based store, enhancing accessibility for new customers in the area.
Steve Gray, Head of European Retail Asset Management at Global Mutual, also commented on the addition of Dunelm to Atria Watford. He highlighted the customer anticipation for the store’s opening and noted the rejuvenation of the former John Lewis unit with new brands. Gray remarked that this development, particularly as the festive shopping season approaches, diversifies and enriches the centre’s offerings.
The opening of Dunelm at Atria Watford signifies a strategic expansion for the retailer, offering customers a comprehensive range of homeware and furniture options. The store’s focus on sustainability aligns with contemporary consumer preferences, while its location in a bustling shopping centre makes it an accessible destination for a diverse customer base. This development represents a fusion of retail growth and commitment to sustainable practices, promising an enhanced shopping experience at Atria Watford.
