Frasers buys Liverpool store, a unit home to M&S for 90 years

Frasers Group-owned Sports Direct has announced plans to turn a Grade II-listed site in Liverpool into a 103,000 sq ft retail outlet and health club, replacing what once was a Marks & Spencer store.

Retail giant Frasers Group - the owner of House of Fraser, FLANNELS, MATCHES and more - has now purchased the building and intends to open not only a store but also a new gym, subject to approval.

It has been reported Sports Direct’s refurbishment will take approximately 18 months.

Compton House, the new Sports Direct on Church Street, was previously home to M&S, which had occupied the space since 1930. However, it recently upped and left the city centre’s shopping street to move into the former Debenhams unit at Liverpool ONE.

Head of Acquisitions at Frasers, James France, told LBN: "We are big believers in physical retail and this acquisition marks an exciting time for the group as we continue to expand our store portfolio across the UK and Europe.

"We are looking forward to bringing Liverpool customers a next-generation sports retail experience with the opening of a 70,000 sq ft Sports Direct flagship store. Subject to approval, Everlast Gyms will also open a 23,000 sq ft hybrid gym in the space."

Sports Direct currently has a store in Liverpool ONE, however, it is not clear if the sportswear retailer plans to remain open at the shopping centre.