River Island set to upsize at Manchester Arndale in flurry of new lease activity

River Island has signed a new five year lease at Manchester Arndale shopping centre and is upsizing by 3,686 sq ft to occupy a 22,415 sq ft unit, as it "commits to in-store investments to enhance the customer experience further".

The high street fashion retailer is not alone in signing new deals at the destination, as The Watch Lab, Claire’s and Thomas Sabo – with its range of jewellery, watches and eyewear – have also all signed new five year leases.

Steve Gray, Head of European Retail Asset Management at co-owner of Manchester Arndale, Global Mutual, said: "We are excited to strengthen our relationships with existing brands like River Island, Thomas Sabo, Claire’s, and The Watch Shop.

"These agreements underline our commitment to delivering a diverse and vibrant shopping environment for our valued customers and reflect our commitment to maintaining long lasting and mutually beneficial relationships with retailers.

"We’re also delighted that River Island will be investing in their in-store experience as Manchester Arndale continues to lead the charge in terms of customer experience."

With other recent lettings to The North Face, Moss, Nike, Dune and Oseyo, these latest arrivals mark Manchester Arndale’s ongoing commitment to "securing a variety of high-quality retailers which meet the evolving preferences of modern consumers".