Aphrodite, an independent menswear store in Sunderland, is closing after 30 years due to Frasers Group’s acquisition.
- The store, founded in 1994 by Duncan and Andrew McKenzie, began with just five fashion labels and expanded to over 50 brands.
- Located at 7-8 Vine Place, Sunderland, the retail space increased from 500 sq ft to 4,284 sq ft over the years.
- The site is now available for rent, following substantial investments and refurbishments by Aphrodite.
- Frasers Group, having taken over several stores including John Anthony and Zee & Co, has declined to comment on this closure.
Aphrodite, a staple in Sunderland’s menswear landscape, has announced its closure following three decades in business. This decision comes in the wake of its acquisition by the Frasers Group in April. Since its inception in 1994, the store, founded by brothers Duncan and Andrew McKenzie, has been renowned for offering exclusive high-end fashion to young men in the region.
Originally stocking brands such as Blanc Bleu, Amanda Basi, and John Tate, Aphrodite’s inventory expanded to include more than 50 notable names, including Moncler and Stone Island. This growth mirrors the physical expansion of its trading space from an initial 500 square feet to a sprawling 4,284 square feet, underscoring Aphrodite’s strategic investments over the years.
The current retail unit, situated at the heart of Sunderland city centre, is now listed for rent. Characterized by a unique two-level design linked by a glazed feature staircase, the property has undergone extensive internal and external refurbishments. The listing invites new retail or leisure operators, proposing a lease beginning at £35,000 annually for a minimum of five years.
This move aligns with Frasers Group’s recent restructuring activities, which have seen the closure of other acquired stores. Notably, after purchasing John Anthony in December, Frasers has shuttered its locations in Southampton, Swindon, and Bournemouth, sparing only its Bath and Bristol branches. Similarly, Zee & Co has downsized, closing its Roman Road, London store.
Despite repeated inquiries, Frasers Group has opted not to comment on the developments surrounding the closure of Aphrodite and other outlets. This silence leaves industry observers speculating on the strategic direction the Group aims to pursue in consolidating its presence in the premium retail sector.
The closure of Aphrodite marks a significant shift in Sunderland’s retail landscape, shaped by Frasers Group’s strategic acquisitions.
