Sephora has opened a new store in Manchester Arndale, marking its 10th location in the UK and the second in Manchester. Following the launch of its Trafford Centre branch in May 2024, this new outlet brings the global beauty retailer into the heart of the city.
The store officially opened on 1st August at 10am, occupying 4,618 square feet within one of the UK’s busiest shopping centres. With the location selected to serve Manchester’s city dwellers, professionals, students, and tourists, the opening strengthens the retailer’s presence in the region’s retail landscape.
The opening day was marked by a range of activities. The line was hosted by Don One, a well-known UK drag king, in the lead-up to the ribbon-cutting ceremony. Entertainment continued across the weekend with DJ performances from local acts including Mix Stress, Silly Beats Disco, and FORBID.
Sephora UK also organised interactive features and brand-led sessions. Attendees experienced games and professional showcases from a range of its brands, such as Inde Wild, NARS, MERIT Beauty, Tower 28, and the Sephora Collection. There were also live activations and giveaways hosted by Summer Fridays, Indu, Dr Sam’s, BYOMA, Sol De Janeiro, Benefit, Laura Mercier, Caudalie, VIEVE, Glow Hub and Too Faced.
Sarah Boyd, Managing Director of Sephora UK, commented: “We’ve been blown away by the energy and support from our community at every store opening since our first in 2023. As we continue to grow, we want to ensure our events are as welcoming and inclusive as possible. This new approach means even more customers can enjoy the fun and walk away with a surprise, without needing to arrive hours before doors open. It’s about putting customer wellbeing first, while still celebrating in true Sephora style.”
The Manchester Arndale launch follows several other UK openings this year, including stores in Sheffield Meadowhall in July and Liverpool One in May. Additional launches in Newcastle, Gateshead, Birmingham, and Kent took place in 2024, with further expansions planned in Cardiff and Oxford later in 2025.
Sephora’s UK offering continues to include exclusive “Only at Sephora” brands such as Tower 28, One/Size by Patrick Starrr, Inde Wild, and Dr. Sam’s. The brand will also introduce Hailey Bieber’s rhode beauty to UK customers later in the year. Popular global labels including Glossier, Rare Beauty, Fenty Beauty, Nars, and Huda Beauty remain key parts of the range.
The latest opening reinforces Manchester Arndale‘s status as a central retail hub. Hosting over 200 stores and welcoming more than 46 million visitors annually, the centre is managed by Sovereign Centros from CBRE, on behalf of M&G Real Estate and Global Mutual.
