Eldon Square has announced that River Island will be relocating and upsizing to a new store. The new store, covering over 20,000sqft, is located on St Andrews Way across two floors in the former Topshop unit. It will provide an enhanced shopping experience featuring curated collections, digital fitting rooms, and a brand-new look. The store will include exclusive product edits, specialist sections, as well as next-generation tech, enabling customers to order items in-store or for home delivery. The digital-first store also extends to fitting rooms, where products will be identified on entry for ease of purchase. Using the touch screen interface, customers can ask for more sizes, choose alternative styles, or get help from in-store style experts – making fashion even more accessible. Designed to reinvigorate the high street, the new store will showcase even more styles across its collections.
The new store opening aligns with the strategic vision of Eldon Square’s owners, XPE Group PLC, formerly known as Intu Debenture PLC. As of 1st July 2024, Debenture PLC, known for its management of retail and leisure destinations, announced its rebrand to XPE Group PLC. The strategic rebrand marks a significant shift to reflect a move away from its former Intu Debenture PLC Group set up and towards a future-facing company. Under its new identity, XPE Group PLC will implement strategies aimed at future-proofing its three schemes – including investing in key brands such as River Island.
Gemma Scarfe, Digital & Marketing Director at River Island, stated, “We’re thrilled to announce our new relocated store in the Eldon Square development. Newcastle has been a beacon of cultural dynamism in the last decade, drawing in investment and shaping itself as a premier destination, and we are excited to be part of that story. Our new store promises to redefine the shopping experience for our customers, enriching their journey through our brand amidst the vibrancy of this thriving city.”
Pete Cooper at XPE Group PLC says, “The expansion of River Island’s concept store represents a significant milestone in Newcastle’s retail landscape, marking the first retail announcement since Intu Debenture PLC rebranded to XPE Group PLC. The new store supports our strategy of elevating Eldon Square, providing unparalleled opportunities for engaging customer experiences. As Eldon Square continues to evolve with strategic developments like Next and Sephora, we’re excited to contribute to the region’s thriving retail ecosystem. We look forward to fostering meaningful partnerships that will take Newcastle’s retail offering to the next level.”
