Zara is upsizing in Leeds as part of an "ongoing store optimisation"

Inditex Group-owned Zara is set to open a new flagship store at Trinity Leeds, upsizing and relocating into the centre from its location at Briggate.

The new 46,000 sq ft store will feature Zara's full range including women's, men's, and kids' collections. The space will showcase the latest technological innovations from Zara, integrating the online experience with brick-and-mortar retail.

The move forms part of the optimisation plan of Zara’s parent group Inditex. The plan encompasses "bigger, better and more beautiful stores" in the top retail destinations globally.

In 2022, store sales grew 23%, achieved with 10% less stores and 6% less commercial space than in the previous year's results. The company attributes this increase to "ongoing store optimisation" and its digitalisation programme.

Trinity, located in the heart of Leeds city centre, is the leading shopping destination in the region. Zara follows a number of brands including Levi's, Space NK and Nespresso which have relocated to Trinity from alternate locations in the city as the flight to prime intensifies.

Nik Porter, Head of Brand Account Management at Landsec, commented: "As guests demand more from their shopping experience, brands are prioritising prime locations that drive footfall, enable customer service and have the ability to integrate in-store and online shopping experiences.

"Our retail strategy allows us to work in partnership with brands holistically to find them the best locations and ensure that their physical presence adds value to their wider multichannel offer."

In March, Inditex reported sales reach £28.77 billion (€32.6 billion) in the full year ending 31 January 2023, representing a 17.5% rise year on year. Zara (including Zara Home) saw sales of £20.96 billion (€23.76 billion).