Harvey Norman, an Australian retail giant, has launched its first outlet in England at Merry Hill.
- Occupying a 57,000 sq ft space, this store offers a vast array of products including furniture and home appliances.
- The new establishment features specialised areas tailored for different product categories like cooking appliances.
- The decision to launch at Merry Hill highlights the centre’s growing significance in the retail sector.
- This expansion is seen as a significant move by Harvey Norman to capture the English market.
Harvey Norman has made a significant entry into the English market by opening its first store at Merry Hill, located in Brierley Hill. Spanning a sizeable 57,000 sq ft, this new retail outlet underscores the brand’s commitment to expanding its global footprint. The store offers a diverse range of products including furniture, dining sets, bedroom suites, and kitchenware, in addition to home appliances and technology. Within the store, there are dedicated zones for each category, with a noteworthy cooking appliance centre designed specifically for Merry Hill.
The arrival of Harvey Norman at Merry Hill exemplifies the ongoing transformation of the retail hub from a centre previously facing vacancy challenges to a thriving shopping destination. Graeme Jones, Executive Director at Sovereign Centros, the centre’s asset manager, stated, “The arrival of Harvey Norman exemplifies the transformation of Merry Hill over a number of years, going from a centre struggling with vacancy to one that is thriving.” This strategic decision to include Harvey Norman aligns with the centre’s goal of enhancing its consumer offerings by adding high-calibre brands.
Lachlan Roach, Managing Director of Harvey Norman UK, remarked on the brand’s expansion, “With over 300 stores in eight countries across the globe, it will be no surprise that we have been wanting to make our entrance to the English market for a while.” His comments reflect the company’s intent to establish a strong presence in England, using Merry Hill as a strategic location to anchor its operations.
The addition of Harvey Norman to Merry Hill is not only seen as a boon for the Australian company but also serves to position the shopping centre as a prominent retail hub in the West Midlands. By attracting major retailers like Harvey Norman, Merry Hill aims to elevate its status among national shopping centres, offering consumers a unique and comprehensive retail experience.
The collaboration between property agencies JLL, Time Retail Partners, and Font Real Estate in securing this deal underscores the importance of having a reputable and diverse tenant mix at Merry Hill.
The opening of Harvey Norman at Merry Hill marks a pivotal moment for both the retailer and the shopping centre, poised to enhance the retail landscape in the region.
