River Island's Metrocentre store to undergo major refurbishment which will include new high-tech additions

Metrocentre's River Island is set for a major refurb
-Credit: (Image: Metrocentre)


The Metrocentre Partnership has announced that River Island is undertaking a comprehensive refurbishment of its 25,500 sq ft store.

Work has started to create a best-in-class shop fit and refreshed shopping experience, at the largest River Island store in the North East. The updated store on Red Mall will feature a completely revamped interior, offering an elevated shopping experience with curated collections, digital fitting rooms, and exclusive product edits.

The inclusion of next-generation technology will enhance convenience, with customers able to use touchscreen interfaces in fitting rooms to request different sizes, explore alternative styles, or receive style advice, all designed to make shopping more seamless and enjoyable.

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The extensive refurbishment will be carried out in phases to ensure the store remains open and operational throughout, allowing customers to continue shopping without interruption.

Ben Cox, Director at Sovereign Centros from CBRE, asset manager of Metrocentre, said: "River Island’s decision to refurbish its Metrocentre store is a significant endorsement of the destination's ability to deliver best-in-class stores from major retailers. This investment highlights Metrocentre’s position as the premier destination in the North East for visitors, and our active leasing programme for Red Mall, bringing together the best in high street retail."

Gemma Scarfe, Digital and Marketing Director at River Island, said: “We're delighted to be investing in our Metrocentre store. Gateshead is a prime location that aligns perfectly with our brand, and we are excited to unveil the new look to our customers.

"The upgraded store promises to redefine the shopping experience for our customers, enriching their journey through our brand amidst the vibrancy of this thriving city.”

Metrocentre continues to attract significant investments from top-tier retailers, with River Island following in the footsteps of Zara, Frasers Group, Mango, and Footasylum in choosing to bring brand-new, enhanced store fits and shopping experiences to the destination’s Red Mall in the last 12 months.