Gymshark to Launch Its First Standalone Store in the North at Manchester’s Trafford Centre
In a significant move that underscores its commitment to expanding its physical retail presence, Gymshark, a leading fitness community and apparel brand, has announced the opening of its first standalone store in the North of England. The store is set to welcome customers on Saturday, July 12, at the Trafford Centre, a prominent shopping destination in Manchester. Spanning an impressive 7,500 square feet on Upper Peel Avenue, the store will feature all of Gymshark’s iconic product lines, including the popular Vital and Power ranges, as well as exclusive items tailored specifically for the Trafford Centre location.
The design of the store reflects Gymshark’s distinctive branding, which has successfully melded athleticism with community engagement. Featured within the store will be mannequins constructed from actual members of the community, creating a personalized shopping experience that appeals to Gymshark’s ethos of inclusivity. Additionally, shoppers can expect dedicated spaces for the brand’s hero products and an inviting atmosphere enhanced by bespoke lighting in the changing rooms. The motto “We Do Gym” permeates through the store’s concept, emphasizing the brand’s lifestyle-driven approach.
This opening marks a pivotal moment for Gymshark, coming on the heels of recent store launches in high-profile locations including The Dubai Mall and Kalverstraat in Amsterdam. Furthermore, it precedes the anticipated arrival of Gymshark’s flagship store in the United States later this year. Notably, Manchester holds a special place in Gymshark’s story; the city was the site of one of the brand’s inaugural meet-ups, as well as its first Lift event following the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The brand’s existing presence in Selfridges at the Trafford Centre has experienced remarkable success, signaling the city’s growing importance as a hub for fitness and lifestyle brands.
Founded in 2012 by Ben Francis in the modest setting of his garage, Gymshark has evolved into a retail phenomenon, hailed as one of the UK’s most notable success stories of the 21st century. With a vast global community of over 20 million individuals spanning more than 200 countries, Gymshark has transcended traditional retail boundaries. The brand not only focuses on providing high-quality athletic apparel but also on fostering a supportive community that encourages individuals to reach their fitness aspirations.
Hannah Mercer, General Manager of Wholesale & Retail at Gymshark, expressed her excitement about the impending opening, stating, “Since we announced that we were going to open a permanent store in Trafford Centre, back in September, I don’t think a day has gone by where someone hasn’t got in touch to ask me WHEN? It’s so great to be now able to reveal the date to such an engaged audience. It’s such an amazing time to be opening in the City, as it seems to be on absolute fire right now. Whether it’s the economic boom, the thriving fitness scene, or even a couple of brothers coming back together, it is undoubtedly the place to be. I can’t wait for that ribbon to be cut.”
Simultaneously, Simon Layton, the Centre Director at Trafford Centre, shared his enthusiasm for the new addition to their retail offerings, remarking, “We’re thrilled to welcome Gymshark’s first Northern store to Trafford Centre this July, joining our growing athleisure and sportswear offering at the centre. We have no doubt that Gymshark will prove immensely popular and can’t wait to welcome them on opening day.”
The emergence of Gymshark’s store in Manchester is indicative of the broader trends within the retail and fitness industry. As consumers increasingly seek out personalized experiences and community-oriented brands, Gymshark stands at the forefront of this shift, leveraging its unique brand identity to cater to a diverse consumer base. The Trafford Centre, renowned for its extensive retail portfolio, is set to become a vibrant location for both casual shoppers and fitness enthusiasts alike.
In conclusion, Gymshark’s entry into Manchester not only represents a strategic retail expansion but also highlights the brand’s ethos of community building and support. As the fitness landscape continues to evolve, Gymshark demonstrates its capacity to adapt and thrive, making it a brand to watch in the coming years.
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