A London friend once complained to me that the problem with UNIQLO is that everybody, everywhere, is suddenly stylish. True fashionistas as struggling to stand out now that the Japanese clothing brand has brought its simple everyday essentials to the UK high street, with 14 stores across the capital.
With UNIQLO locations also in the likes of Manchester, Liverpool and Edinburgh, Brummies will be next to find out why its affordable, simple and high-quality basics have built such a cult following. The brand, which launched 40 years ago, will at last set up shop in the Bullring on New Street this autumn.
“Bullring continues to attract best-in-class global brands seeking a flagship presence in the region, reinforcing its position as the leading Midlands destination,” said Paul O’Brien, Director of Leasing & Commercialisation at Hammerson. “UNIQLO is the latest brand to make a significant commitment to Bullring, reflecting the strength of our position, quality of the asset, and exceptional line-up of leading names in retail.”
UNIQLO Birmingham will take over the former Zara store, a 20,000 sq ft site set over three floors, with a trading space of 11,840 sq ft. You’ll be able to get your hands on the full range of men’s, women’s, kidswear and baby clothing, including the UNIQLO LifeWear collections.
The news comes with the announcement that the store will also be opening in Glasgow, showing off UNIQLO’s lofty ambitions. UNIQLO’s COO, Alessandro Dudech, added: “Bringing the brand to the Midlands for the first time is a key strategic step for us, and Bullring’s prominent position in the UK’s second city made for the ideal location.”