// Next signs deals to open new concept beauty halls in former Debenhams stores at 3 Intu malls
// Next already agreed terms to open beauty concepts in three former Debenhams stores with Hammerson
// Next says the beauty concept will be complimented by its online beauty business
Intu has confirmed it has signed deals with Next for it to open new concept beauty halls in former Debenhams stores within its shopping centres.
The fashion retail giant will open its new beauty concepts in former Debenhams sites in Intu Metrocentre, Milton Keynes and Watford.
The new Next concepts will also have home and womenswear items on display.
READ MORE:
- Next store sales plummet 72% as it struggles to return to normal
- Debenhams chairman blocks Next beauty hall deals on 2 stores
- Next swoops in on empty Debenhams beauty halls for new concept
The news comes after Next revealed in May that it agreed terms to open beauty concepts in three former Debenhams stores at The Oracle in Reading, Highcross in Leicester and Centrale in Croydon – all of which are owned by Intu’s main rival Hammerson.
While some retailers are looking to reduce their store footprint in light of the financial impact of the coronavirus lockdown, Next has bucked the trend.
The fashion retailer said its beauty concepts will be complimented by its online beauty business.
Next currently sells over 200 beauty brands on its website – including premium brands Estee Lauder, Burberry, Bvlgari, Emporio Armani, Yves Saint Laurent and Lancôme – and acquired Fabled in July 2019 from Ocado.
Intu said the Next beauty hall opening dates have not yet been confirmed.
“This new partnership shows how important flagship destinations are to the future of retail. We are very impressed with Next’s ambition for its new concept,” an Intu spokesperson said.
“There are many positive movements in retail and confidence within the industry that will see further announcements and good news for our shoppers.”
Click here to sign up to Retail Gazette‘s free daily email newsletter
