It’s safe to say Uniqlo has been having a moment in recent years.
The business was named the world’s fastest-growing fashion brand in May 2025, research from Kantar revealed.
In July, the company’s owner Fast Retailing also raised its full-year profit forecast. Its third-quarter operating profit jumped 45.7 per cent, with the owner now on track to deliver its fifth consecutive year of record earnings.
Now, Uniqlo has opened its 25th UK store, as it gears up for further regional expansion.
Launched on 24 September, Uniqlo’s new site is based on Grande Arcade, St Andrews Street in Cambridge.
Uniqlo’s UK COO Alessandro Dudech explains that Cambridge was “a natural choice” for Uniqlo’s 25th UK store, because it “brings together a diverse population of residents, students and visitors who value quality, functionality and thoughtful design”.
“We believe our Lifewear philosophy resonates strongly with the city’s character, offering everyday clothing that is practical, comfortable and designed to improve daily life,” he says.
“Opening in Cambridge allows us to bring the Uniqlo experience closer to customers in the region while strengthening our presence beyond London.”
The new shop spans approximately 880 square metres across two floors. It stocks its full range of Lifewear for women and men, as well as a selection of its designer collaborations.
“What makes this store particularly special is its connection to the local community,” Dudech points out.
“Customers will also be welcomed by a striking mural from Cambridge-based illustrator Lele Saa, celebrating the city’s heritage, creativity and culture.”
Ramping up its UK expansion
The new store follows reports in August that Uniqlo was ramping up its UK expansion.
Following its Cambridge launch, Dudech notes that the retailer will be opening its second Manchester location at Trafford Centre.
Looking ahead to 2027, he also confirms Uniqlo has plans for new stores in Bath, Brighton, Canary Wharf and Leeds.
“Each location has been selected because it represents a vibrant retail destination with strong local communities and long-term growth potential,” he says.
“Our ambition is to make Lifewear more accessible to customers across the UK by investing in both major cities and thriving regional locations, bringing the Uniqlo experience closer to where people live, work and shop.”
The exec acknowledges that reaching 25 stores is “an important milestone” for Uniqlo. However, he assures “we see it as another step in our long-term growth journey rather than a destination”.
“The UK remains a very important market for Uniqlo, and we continue to see significant opportunities to grow our presence across the country,” he says.
“Our strategy is focused on long-term expansion, investing in locations where we can serve customers for the long term while building meaningful connections with local communities.
“The planned openings across Manchester, Bath, Brighton, Canary Wharf and Leeds demonstrate our continued confidence in the UK market and our commitment to bringing Lifewear to more people nationwide.”
Like all retailers launching new stores in 2026, Uniqlo needs to ensure its shops offer more than just a transactional experience in order to drive footfall.
Echoing this sentiment, Dudech says: “Our stores are about much more than retail space. They are places where we can connect directly with customers and contribute positively to local communities.
“From working with local artists and organisations to creating experiences that reflect the culture and character of each city, we aim to ensure every new store feels relevant and meaningful to the people it serves.
“The Cambridge opening is a great example of this approach through our collaborations with the University of Cambridge and local artist Lele Saa.
“As we continue expanding across the UK, that commitment to local relevance, quality customer experience and community engagement will remain at the heart of everything we do.”
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