Fashion, jewellery and homewares retailer Oliver Bonas is to open a shop in Altrincham town centre.
We can reveal that the much-loved brand has secured one of the three new retail units being created from the former Poundland space on George Street, as part of the ongoing regeneration of the Stamford Quarter.
The move represents a significant coup for Altrincham, bringing one of the UK's most sought-after independent retailers to the town centre.
Oliver Bonas, founded in 1993, has built a loyal following for its distinctive blend of women's clothing, jewellery, accessories, furniture, beauty products and unique homeware.
The decision to open in Altrincham comes during a period of significant growth for the retailer.
It now stands at over 90 stores across the UK and recently opened in Didsbury. Last September it reported impressive financial results for 2023 of £135.7million, up from £115million the previous year.
The new Oliver Bonas store will occupy one of three retail units being created from the 7,000 sq ft former Poundland space.
Work is currently taking place on the site after transformation plans were submitted by Stamford Quarter joint owners Bruntwood and Trafford Council.
The unit had endured a troubled recent history with the closure of both Wilko and Poundland, but it's hoped that splitting it into three separate units will help to further enhance the Stamford Quarter's burgeoning reputation as a retail destination.
Chris Houghton, Retail & Leisure Manager at Bruntwood, told us: “The arrival of Oliver Bonas in the Stamford Quarter reflects the strength and ambition of our retail and leisure offer, while complementing the vibrant mix of independents and national names already here.
"We’re confident Oliver Bonas will be a real draw for both local shoppers and visitors from further afield, and we’re delighted to be bringing such a popular lifestyle store to Altrincham.”
The retailer is already recruiting for a number of new jobs in the store, including store manager and assistant store manager.
Details about an opening date are expected to be announced soon.
The news comes as part of the ongoing regeneration of the Stamford Quarter, which has seen significant transformation following a £14m joint acquisition by Bruntwood and Trafford Council in October 2019.
Recent developments include the creation of Foundation, a collaborative workspace and leisure destination featuring a 375 sq m living biophilic wall.
The area is now home to leading independent and national hospitality brands including Nell's Pizza, Yum Cha, Lane7 and Starbucks.
Last year the Stamford Quarter also welcomed new retail openings including Mountain Warehouse, Rituals, Crew Clothing and the first bricks-and-mortar concept store for online beauty retailer LOOKFANTASTIC.
