News, January 2008

Laura Ashley provides The Junction with a new fashion

High street fashion retailer Laura Ashley has signed a deal to open stores that will offer both fashion and home furnishings at two of The Junction's retail parks. The stores are due to open at St Andrews Quay Retail Park in Hull and Telford Forge Shopping Park in Telford on 30th December 2007 and 24th January 08 respectively. A 7,000 sq ft store has been taken at St Andrews Quay Retail Park whilst a 12,000sq ft store has been taken at Telford Forge Shopping Park. John Gatley, Managing Director at The Junction comments: "Adding retailers such as Laura Ashley helps complement the current mix of bulky goods and Open A1. Our aim in 2008 is to continuously diversify our portfolio; therefore it is gratifying to welcome retailers that seek new initiatives and a unique and popular shopping culture." In addition to Laura Ashley, the first HomeStore+More store was launched in the UK at The Junction Cambridge Close Retail Park in Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire. John added: "The Laura Ashley lettings, among others that have been recently been sealed, positively reflect the confidence that is held by retailers and the opportunities that are still present in this market." Famous for its delicate fashions and inspirational home furnishings, Laura Ashley has a growing global franchise operation which spans the Far East, Australia, Scandinavia and South America. St Andrews Quay Retail Park underwent a £45million regeneration project in 2005, adding 137,000 sq ft of retail, introducing retailers Currys, PC World, Barker and Stonehouse, Pets At Home, Pizza Hut and Frankie & Benny's. Telford Forge Shopping Park is 312,857 sq ft and includes retailers such as Sainsbury's, Tesco Home, Next, Boots, Blacks, PC World, Currys, TK Maxx and Outfit.