New River Island letting leads flurry of leasing activity at Manchester Arndale

• River Island has upsized its presence at the centre after signing a new lease 
• Mexican eatery Tortilla has also signed a 10-year lease 
• The Watch Shop, Thomas Sabo and Claire’s have also extended commitments to the centre 

Manchester Arndale is delighted to announce a flurry of leasing activity, including a major renewal and upsize for River Island, renewals for The Watch Lab, Thomas Sabo, and Claire’s, as well as welcoming new arrival Tortilla.

British fashion retailer, River Island has renewed its lease for a further five years and will expand by 3,686 sq ft to occupy a 22,415 sq ft unit. The brand, known for its stylish and unique clothing and accessories across womenswear, menswear, and kidswear, already has a strong presence at Manchester Arndale and has committed to a program of in-store investments to enhance the customer experience further. On offer will be a wide range of design-led options making it a go-to destination for fashion-forward individuals seeking the latest trends.

Fast-growing Mexican eatery, Tortilla, will also take a 1,737 sq ft unit on a 10-year lease. Promising to satisfy shoppers’ appetites with its delicious Mexican cuisine, it will no doubt become a must-visit destination for those seeking a taste of Mexico in the heart of the city.

Meanwhile, three more retailers have signed lease renewals at the centre. The Watch Lab, has agreed a new 5-year lease, ensuring that visitors will have access to top-notch watch services at Manchester Arndale. Thomas Sabo, with its range of high-quality jewellery, watches, and eyewear, have also signed a new 5-year lease for its 1,381 sq ft unit on New Cannon Street. Finally, popular accessory and jewellery brand, Claire’s, has also committed its future to the centre after agreeing a new 5-year lease, meaning shoppers will continue to enjoy their wide selection of fashionable accessories and jewellery.

Steve Gray, Head of European Retail Asset Management at Global Mutual, said: “We are excited to strengthen our relationships with existing brands like River Island, Thomas Sabo, Claire’s, and The Watch Shop. These agreements underline our commitment to delivering a diverse and vibrant shopping environment for our valued customers and reflect our commitment to maintaining long-lasting and mutually beneficial relationships with retailers. We’re also delighted that River Island will be investing in their in-store experience as Manchester Arndale continues to lead the charge in terms of customer experience.

New arrival Tortilla signifies a commitment to aligning our food and beverage offer with the thriving retail scene, further helping to uphold our reputation as a leading destination in the heart of Manchester.”

M&G Real Estate and Global Mutual act as joint asset managers of Manchester Arndale while Metis Real Estate and Time Retail Partners are the centre’s retained letting agents.