USS signs up three new major retailers to Grand Arcade, Cambridge

USS signs up Oliver Bonas, Dr Martens and Bubbleology to long-term deals strengthening the retail offer at Grand Arcade 

Universities Superannuation Scheme (“USS”) – one of the largest pension schemes in the UK – has signed three new tenants to Grand Arcade all on 10-year leases.

With the addition of Oliver Bonas, Dr Martens, and Bubbleology, Grand Arcade will now offer a broader selection of fashion, lifestyle, and health retailers. Each of the three new tenants brings something unique to Grand Arcade and the Cambridge shopping experience.

Oliver Bonas will offer a wide range of fashion accessories and gifts, on the 3,000 sq ft ground floor space, while Dr Martens the iconic footwear brand and retailer will open its new Grand Arcade store operating in a 2,100 sq ft space, previously occupied by Clinton’s Cards.

Bubbleology, with its unique bubble tea drinks, will provide a new and exciting addition to the selection of eateries available in Grand Arcade, in its first store in Cambridge.

All tenants have committed to sharing meter readings and its consumption data with the occupier, as part of USS’s ongoing commitment to the ESG agenda.

The news is a vote of confidence in Grand Arcade, which continues to thrive and pique the attention of the retail and leisure occupier community. Last December, Grand Arcade signed the boutique cinema brand, Everyman, who agreed to occupy a 15,600 sq ft space on the first floor. Their deal was subject to planning conditions, which have been met this month, paving the way for works to begin to create the cinema, which is targeting an opening in 2024.

This was followed on from national jewellery retailer Beaverbrooks opening a 2,500 sq ft store in the prime mall, with an adjoining luxury boutique with world-renowned Swiss watch brand TAG Heuer. JD Sports also launched a new 14,200 sq ft store at the centre in October. Both have proved hugely popular and are providing a new draw to Grand Arcade’s stellar line-up of brands.

Martin Macwhinnie, Centre Manager for Grand Arcade commented: “The signing of the three new tenants is a major step in Grand Arcade’s plans to become a fully integrated lifestyle destination, with a wide array of retailers providing shoppers with an enjoyable and unique shopping experience.”