British men’s outdoorwear brand Trailberg is set to embark on a significant expansion, opening its first permanent store at Manchester’s Arndale shopping centre this summer.
The new store marks a pivotal moment for Trailberg, known for its speciality in mountain running apparel. With a five-year lease agreement in place, this initiative reflects the brand’s commitment to enhancing its retail presence.
Trailberg’s Strategic Expansion
Trailberg has firmly established itself as a leader in outdoor sportswear, with innovative designs tailored for mountain running. The decision to open a store in Manchester Arndale represents a step towards reinforcing this position by providing a dedicated physical space to showcase their products.
This 1,300 sq ft retail space, previously occupied by sportswear brand Cruyff, underscores Trailberg’s ambition to capture a broader customer base within a bustling commercial hub that attracts millions of visitors annually.
Manchester Arndale: A Leading Retail Destination
Manchester Arndale is not just any shopping centre; it’s a retail powerhouse with a reported footfall of 46 million visitors in 2023. It’s a haven for shoppers seeking a diverse range of brands and products, making it an ideal location for Trailberg’s first physical retail outlet.
The shopping centre’s recent additions, including footwear retailer Dune and fashion brand French Connection, highlight its growing appeal among major retail players. This trend emphasises why Trailberg’s strategic move into Arndale is poised for success.
Enhancing Brand Visibility and Access
Trailberg’s presence in Manchester Arndale is expected to significantly enhance its brand visibility across the region.
By establishing a base in such a high-impact location, the brand aims to tap into new market demographics, thereby increasing its reach and customer engagement.
In doing so, Trailberg will not only cater to existing enthusiasts of outdoor sports but potentially draw interest from casual shoppers intrigued by their unique offerings.
Global Mutual’s Vision for Arndale
Steve Gray, head of European retail asset management at Global Mutual, remarks on the centre’s strategic brand mix, emphasizing its role in maintaining Manchester Arndale’s reputation as a premier shopping destination. He notes that this blend helps secure ongoing footfall and attracts interest from both local and international brands.
Gray’s insights into the leasing activities hint at the shopping centre being close to full occupancy, which adds to the attractiveness of Trailberg’s choice to launch their first store here.
The Broader Retail Landscape
The opening of Trailberg’s store is part of a larger trend of revitalising shopping centres, contributing to what many describe as a retail renaissance. This revival sees shopping centres reclaiming their place as vibrant, essential venues for commerce and social interaction.
Trailberg’s strategic decision reflects a wider movement among brands to re-establish physical retail as a critical component of their market strategy.
Economic Impacts of New Openings
The economic implications of new store openings at Manchester Arndale are notable. Not only do these developments create direct employment opportunities, but they also stimulate economic activity in adjacent areas.
As businesses like Trailberg establish themselves, there’s a multiplier effect that benefits service providers and ancillary businesses, strengthening the local economy.
This ripple effect underscores the importance of strategic retail expansions in contributing to economic vitality.
Trailberg’s inaugural store at Manchester Arndale underscores a calculated and promising step in its growth strategy.
By entering one of the UK’s most vibrant retail locations, Trailberg not only boosts its brand presence but also contributes to Manchester Arndale’s thriving commercial environment. This move promises to be mutually beneficial, aligning Trailberg’s ambitions with the centre’s expanding portfolio of dynamic retail offerings.
