American footwear giant Skechers has revealed plans to open an innovative store in Cardiff, marking its first venture of this kind in the UK. The new store, set to open in June next year, will be located at Newport Road and cover an expansive 14,000 sq ft area. This move is part of Skechers’ strategy to establish similar standalone store formats across the UK. The leasing process was facilitated by Sterling Real Estate IM and EJ Hales, who advised the undisclosed private investor and developer landlord, while CBRE represented Skechers in the deal. The store will be housed in a unit previously occupied by Newport Furnishers, which is currently undergoing extensive remodelling and refurbishment in preparation for the grand opening.
While specifics of the lease and rental agreement remain undisclosed, the refurbishment includes new glazing, cladding works, separate entrance features, and access to the first floor. In addition to Skechers’ store, there is high demand for the remaining 13,000 sq ft of the unit, indicating a positive outlook for the retail space in Cardiff. Alongside this development, Eva Ashley Bridal, a bridal boutique based in Swansea, is expanding its presence by opening a new store in Cardiff at Castle Arcade. With a focus on high-end bridal collections, the new Cardiff store will be the largest for Eva Ashley Bridal, complementing its existing outlets in Swansea and Tonypandy.
Co-founded by sisters Rebecca and Rachel Chick in 2017, Eva Ashley Bridal is known for its unique selection of gowns that cater to individual tastes. The Cardiff store will showcase an extensive range of exclusive, high-fashion designs, offering brides-to-be a curated selection of dresses. Scheduled to open by the end of this month, the expansion signifies the brand’s growth and commitment to providing exceptional bridal experiences. This move reflects Eva Ashley Bridal’s mission to offer distinct and personalised options for brides seeking something special for their big day, reinforcing the boutique’s reputation for uniqueness and quality.
In conclusion, the arrival of Skechers’ pioneering store and Eva Ashley Bridal’s expansion in Cardiff highlight the city’s appeal as a vibrant retail destination, welcoming new and diverse offerings for shoppers. Both brands bring distinctive products and experiences to the market, contributing to the dynamic retail landscape in Cardiff and enhancing the city’s position as a shopping hub. With these developments, Cardiff continues to attract acclaimed retailers and boutique businesses, further enriching the retail sector and providing consumers with a wide array of choices in the heart of Wales.