Suit Direct launches first high-street store in Huddersfield

The Baird Group, the Leeds-based retail concessionaire and outlet store operator, has expanded its chain of Suit Direct stores with the launch of the brand’s first high-street shop.

Suit Direct, which operates from 20 outlet centres and has concessions in a number of department stores, has opened at the Kingsgate Shopping Centre in Huddersfield.

The opening marks the retailer’s first step onto the high street with a full price, standalone store.

Anchored by House of Fraser, the Kingsgate Centre has over 40 brands as tenants, including Next, Topshop and H&M.

Suit Direct has agreed a 10-year lease for a 1,910 sq ft unit. Plans to expand the centre with a £17m development, including nine leisure/restaurant units and a multi-screen cinema, have recently been submitted with a decision expected in early spring.

David Basterfield, retail director at Baird Group, said: “Huddersfield is a thriving town with huge potential for growth, so is the ideal location for us to launch Suit Direct’s first standalone, high-street store.

“The Kingsgate Centre provides us with a well established, quality environment which has proven to attract and retain many top brands. With the prospect of further investment this year, it was a very attractive proposition which we’re confident will ensure the new shop is a success.“

Peter Everest, managing director of WD Huddersfield, added: “We’re pleased to welcome Suit Direct to Kingsgate and provide a base for its new full-price offering. The retailer is one of an increasing number to recognise Huddersfield as a leading retail town.

“As highlighted by the latest CACI report, it is now one of the UK’s top 10 locations for retail as it has consistently performed, offering the right mix of shops to meet the needs of local people but offering the scope for further growth.

“Our plans for a multi-million pound leisure scheme underlines our confidence in the town and will help further position Huddersfield as a prime location for future investment.“