Major retailer announces new branch at Churchill Square - and a second to expand

Victoria’s Secret is set to take on the site of HMV in Churchill Square, with clothes brand Zara expanding into the unit formerly occupied by British Home Stores (BHS).

Mark Buchanan-Smith, Churchill Square centre director, said: “Victoria’s Secret has committed to a long-term lease on the unit formerly occupied by HMV in our upper mall.

“The Churchill Square store will be one of only 30 planned in the UK and continues the brand’s expansion across the country.”

The new store – which is scheduled to open in late spring - will sell the full range of Victoria’s Secret lingerie, and Mr Buchanan-Smith said that the arrival illustrates Churchill Square’s ‘continuing appeal’ to leading international fashion retailers.

“This is underlined by Zara doubling its presence after ten years at the centre,” he said. “Zara will take up the majority of the former BHS and will trade from both mall levels, with its existing store remaining open to shoppers throughout any development work. Zara Home will also continue operating from a separate standalone store in the centre.”

The old BHS site will become a 37,000 sq ft flagship store for Zara, expected to open later in the year.

“These lettings will boost Churchill Square’s appeal as a major fashion shopping destination,” said Mr Buchanan-Smith. “Everyone here is excited to welcome them to the centre and we’re delighted to have been able to expand our offering to the millions of shoppers we attract each year.”