The nationwide sportswear brand will move into a flagship store in the former BHS unit after signing a new 15-year lease at the centre.
The new deal will see Sports Direct relocate from its current 29,000sq ft unit on the lower ground floor to the former BHS space which comprises five floors of 58,500sq ft. The larger store, set to open in late 2022, will see it incorporate its collection of brands including USC, Game, Evans Cycles, and Belong esports arena, all under one roof.
Sports Direct has catered for Manchester’s love of sport since it arrived at Manchester Arndale in 2009. Offering everything from athletics and cricket equipment to camping and hiking gear, at affordable prices, Sports Direct also stocks the latest football kits which helps appeal to the millions of fans who visit the city each year to see their heroes from either the red or blue side of Manchester.
Scott Linard, Portfolio Director at M&G Real Estate, said:“Despite the challenges faced by the retail industry over the past few years, Manchester Arndale has remained resilient throughout the pandemic, completing 25 new leases throughout 2020 and 2021. We are therefore delighted that Sports Direct have not only chosen to commit its long-term future to the centre, but also double the size of its store.”
