Former Topshop unit in Manchester Arndale to be taken over by Gilly Hicks and Clarks

There are going to be some changes at the Manchester Arndale shopping centre with Gilly Hicks and Clarks moving into the unit formerly occupied by Topshop.

There are two other new arrivals coming to the city centre mall – phone and electronics repair shop iFix and Pizza Hut, which will be opening a new express counter in the Food Court.

While Clarks is a household brand in the UK, Gilly Hicks is a complete newcomer to Manchester. It is part of the Abercrombie & Fitch Co. family and sells lingerie, mainly for women but recently branching out into menswear and gender neutral lines.

The new Clarks store will be the only one in Manchester city centre, occupying 3,551 sq ft unit on a 10-year lease.

Several other outlets have also renewed their contract with the Arndale. Hollister, a sister company to Gilly and Hicks, is one of them and will be moving locations to the old Disney Store spot.

Jewellery and glassware brand Swarovski has agreed to a new lease as well, along with Pure Fashion, who recently committed to a 3,709 sq ft store on a five-year lease, Debenhams.com, Tommy Hilfiger, Pandora, Canada Goose, Kick Game, Carvela and Kurt Geiger.

Shoe shop Office and restaurant Nando’s have also agreed to new five-year leases.

With all these renewals, newcomers and location changes, the Arndale is now at 95% capacity.

Colin Flinn, spokesperson for Manchester Arndale, said: “We are delighted that Clarks, Gilly Hicks, iFix and Pizza Hut have decided to join the line up at Manchester Arndale.

“Rather than try and re-let the whole of the former Topshop space, we made the decision to split the space, and create three new high-quality units in a prime location.

“This decision has proved correct as we have now secured two well-known tenants, with the last unit currently under offer, which shows that retailer demand for quality, well placed units remains high.

“We are equally pleased that Hollister and Swarovski have recommitted to Manchester Arndale, demonstrating confidence in the centre as we continue to attract and retain popular international brands and retailers.”