H&M to upsize in Cambridge

H&M is to expand its store at The Grafton centre in Cambridge into the ground floor of the former BHS store, as part of the shopping centre’s ongoing 28 million pound refurbishment.

The Swedish fashion and lifestyle retailer will upsize its existing store by 60 percent, from 17,815 square foot to 28,570 square foot, with the fit out taking place in two phases.

The first phase will see H&M moving its menswear, womenswear and kidswear into the former BHS unit, while the existing unit will be refurbished into a H&M Home concept department, set to open later this year.

Tom Williams, senior asset manager, said: “It is vital to be a proactive owner and we strive to take a hands-on approach in the management of The Grafton and its ongoing refurbishment programme. We recognise the importance of investing into improving the centre and the need to respond to the ever-changing retail environment.”

The 28 million pound refurbishment, which is being managed by Wrenbridge, includes major improvements to the shopping environment throughout, such as upgrading entrances, flooring and roofs along with the reconfiguration of retail space and creation of new units and anchor opportunities.

In addition, the shopping centre has also secured PureGym, who will be taking over the second floor of the former BHS unit, while a new food quarter ‘Food Social’ will be created on the first floor.

The news comes as LGIM Real Assets (Legal and General), owner of The Grafton, revealed investment at the centre had been increased by 10 million pounds, taking the total outlay to 28 million pounds.

The Grafton comprises of 500,000 square foot of retail and leisure space, currently totalling 84 units and an 8-screen Vue Cinema. The centre is anchored by Debenhams, one of only two department stores in Cambridge, the centre is also home to Next, New Look, Boots, Primark, Decathlon and Mothercare.

Image: courtesy of The Grafton Cambridge