Japanese fashion giant UNIQLO opens its 25,000 sq ft Liverpool store – its first outlet in the city – and is collaborating with local businesses. Tony McDonough reports
Japanese fashion brand UNIQLO has opened its new store at Liverpool ONE selling clothes for men, women and children.
UNIQLO occupies a 25,000 sq ft unit in Paradise Street and is trading across two floors. Its premium linen range, BLOCKTECH, offers water resistant and windproof items, as well as the high-performing AIRism collection, renowned for its lightweight, moisture-wicking fabrics that adapt to diverse climates.
There is also an UTme! station where customers have the opportunity to create their own bespoke designs to customise and print onto t-shirts and tote bags.
Chief operating officer for the company in the UK, Alessandro Dudech, said: “Our brand is dedicated to providing innovative and high-quality clothing that caters to the needs of our customers.
“With our presence in Liverpool, we aim to become an integral part of the local community, offering a unique shopping experience that blends style, comfort and affordability.”
UNIQLO operates around 2,500 stores worldwide, 21 in the UK, with annual revenues of more than £4bn. It is part of the Fast Retailing Group which also includes another retail brand, Theory, and generates annual revenues of more than £15bn.
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In Liverpool the brand is keen to collaborate with local businesses. As part of the UTme! offer, UNIQLO showcases local partners Derek’s, Baltic Market, and Girls On The Go who have created custom designs inspired by their local communities.
Located next to the UTme! is the RE.UNIQLO Studio where customers can recycle, repair, or remake favourite UNIQLO items so they can keep wearing and loving them for longer. Customers can personalise and add embroidery pieces.
Liverpool venture, Derek’s Sandwich Shop, is bringing a taste of Japan to the city this April with limited-edition sando offerings, available at their locations throughout Liverpool in celebration of UNIQLO’s store opening.
And the company has partnered with Liverpool’s first ever food market, situated in the Baltic Market at Cains Brewery Village. It recently hosted an Easter Weekender at the venue, featuring live music and local talent.
“In a year of landmark openings, UNIQLO’s showcase space on Paradise Street is a brilliant addition to Liverpool ONE,” added Rob Deacon, asset management director at Liverpool ONE – Landsec.
“The destination continues to attract strong demand from iconic international brands for flagship stores, with UNIQLO joining our exceptional line-up of best-in-class names in fashion.”