Zara reveals new concept store at Bluewater

Zara has debuted its new global concept 37,000 sq ft store at Bluewater - double the size of Zara’s previous store at the shopping centre in Kent.

It shares its design with Zara’s other global flagships in Barcelona and Dubai, making it a major coup for the popular UK shopping destination.

Located on Bluewater’s upper Guildhall, and the result of Bluewater co-owner Landsec combining a number of units and building out over Bluewater’s central service yard, the new Zara showcases the brand’s full ranges for men, women and children over two floors.

In addition, the upper level includes a mezzanine featuring Zara Home, and the store has a dedicated personal shopper area.

Described by Zara as a model for its online and instore integration concept, the store also features an Automated Collection Point (ACP), at which customers can pick-up online orders using QR codes or PINs provided at the time of ordering online.

Continuing the integration theme, the store includes self-service and dedicated refund tills to ensure the experience is as seamless as possible.

Rob Hardie, Portfolio Director at Landsec, co-owner and asset manager of Bluewater, said: “It is a testament to the strength and appeal of Bluewater to brands and consumers alike that Zara has chosen it as the debut location in the UK for its new global flagship concept.

“The store provides Bluewater’s guests with a genuine omni-channel experience that sets a precedent for the future of retail.”

Responding to the current COVID-19 guidelines, the store has opened with a range of measures in place to ensure customers can enjoy the experience safely and with confidence, including one-way systems, hand sanitiser stations and safe queuing.