CBRE Investment Management has unveiled plans for multinational fashion retailer Primark to join the Ashley Centre, a premier shopping destination in Epsom. This move coincides with a substantial £7 million refurbishment of the centre, aimed at modernising and enhancing the shopping experience with significant upgrades, including a refreshed interior and a new external entrance.
Primark is set to take over a 44,000 sq ft area previously occupied by House of Fraser. This strategic location spans two floors adjacent to the central square, positioning it near other key retailers such as JD. As the new anchor tenant, Primark will offer an extensive range of products including menswear, womenswear, childrenswear, as well as accessories, beauty, home, and lifestyle items. The store is expected to create approximately 100 jobs and is slated for opening in early 2025.
The large-scale refurbishment project led by CBRE IM includes a reconstruction of the external East entrance and enhancements to the Central Square. These modifications aim to create a more modern and contemporary interior atmosphere within the Ashley Centre, coupled with new signage and wayfinding solutions throughout the facility. Completion of these enhancements is scheduled for later this summer.
Louisa Butters, Head of Retail Asset Management UK at CBRE IM, emphasised the significance of Primark’s inclusion, stating, “Primark’s signing is a significant moment for the Ashley Centre. The opening will mark another milestone in our repositioning project that underpins our long-term strategy for the revitalisation of the Ashley Centre, ensuring that it continues to serve the needs of the community in every way possible. We look forward to delivering an optimized and enhanced experience and environment for our visitors and reap the benefits of our large-scale refurbishment.”
Philippa Nibbs, Director of Sales UK, London and the South East at Primark, also expressed enthusiasm about the new store: “As we continue to invest in the UK high street, we are delighted to announce our new store in Epsom that will open next year. We look forward to becoming a part of this community and playing a central role in the refurbished Ashley Centre.”
The Ashley Centre has seen a series of new openings in 2023, including JD, Deichmann, and GAIL’s Bakery, as part of its leasing strategy to evolve its retail and F&B offerings, further positioning itself as a vibrant shopping hub in Epsom.
Representatives from GCW and Lunson Mitchenall act as agents for the Ashley Centre.
