Westfield signs three in Guildford
Published: 30 March, 2011
Despite a planning setback for its plans to refurbish and extend Guildford’s Friary Centre, Westfield and Hermes are making progress on revamping the centre’s tenant line-up
Leading retailers Hollister, River Island and Republic have signed for major new stores at the centre. Hollister and Republic will both be opening their first stores in the town, trading from 7,500 sq ft and 6,500 sq ft units respectively. River Island will be expanding its presence in Guildford by taking a larger 10,000-sq ft unit. These new names join Topshop which is currently fitting out a significantly extended store which is due to open this summer, the upgraded HMV and Primark which opened in 2010.
The creation of larger units, which are not generally available within the town centre, has allowed the Friary to attract the international retailers and complement Guildford’s unique high street offer. Work is already underway and includes new glazed entrances, the introduction of more contemporary interior finishes and significantly enhanced lighting levels. The work will also include the creation of a new high quality dining area that will be set at a level that will complement the retail element within the centre.
Westfield chief operating officer Peter Miller said: “We are delivering a major remix and refurbishment of the Friary to significantly improve the experience for shoppers. The signing of these leading retailers has generated strong retailer interest in the remaining available units.”
