Westfield owner URW shortlists brands in running for free retail space
Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield (URW) has announced the shortlist for its Westfield Grand Prix, an international competition for sustainable businesses to win free retail space.
The competition was set-up to help entrepreneurs open their first stores. It forms part of URW's broader support for small and local businesses, allowing the company to bring new concepts to consumers.
Among those recently shortlisted are fashion brands Seventy + Mochi, Known Source, The Seam and Trace Collective, as well as Fruu Cosmetics and Glaize for beauty.
The businesses were selected based on "the innovative ways they are facilitating responsible living and sustainable consumption".
The eight finalists will now pitch their concept to a judging panel, who will decide the Westfield Grand Prix 2023 winner.
Announced on 2 October, the overall winner will receive a grand prize valued at up to £400,000, as well as the opportunity to operate a pop-up shop or kiosk for up to one year.
The people's choice winner, determined by public votes on the Westfield Grand Prix website, will be prominently featured as a highlight attraction at the 2024 Westfield Good Festival.
They will be granted up to £20,000 to support their activation at the festival, as well as a 50,000 contribution for design and store fit-out and £200,000 worth of media promotion through Westfield Rise.
Scott Parsons, Chief Operating Officer UK at Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield, said: "Westfield has a longstanding commitment to fostering entrepreneurship and the Grand Prix, which is in its 15th year and making its UK debut, provides an excellent opportunity to discover the most promising and innovative retail ventures that the UK has to offer.
"A huge congratulations to all our shortlisted brands, each contributing to a more responsible and sustainable way of living - from cleaner transportation to circular fashion. The calibre of the shortlist is truly exciting and we look forward to announcing the winners in October."
