Fitness e-tailer expands with physical store at Liverpool ONE

Online performance leisure and fitness company realbuzz has expanded with a physical presence at Liverpool ONE.

The e-tailer opened a 1,400 sq ft store, located on St John Street, that will stock trainers, apparel, accessories and nutritional supplements from brands such as Nike, Adidas, Asics, Mizuno and New Balance.

Chester-headquartered realbuzz said the Liverpool opening is part of an ambition to launch a further 30 physical stores globally over the next two years.

The focus of the expansion will be on the UK, before looking at overseas markets including the US and Australia.

realbuzz’s chief marketing officer, Paul Eaton, said: “We have built a loyal online community and are thrilled to now bring the buzz to our fitness focused customers in the Liverpool region.

“Located right in the heart of the city, Liverpool ONE has an impressive footfall, appealing to visitors from throughout the North West, as well as the significant number of tourists who enjoy the city, making it the clear choice for the next step in our countrywide expansion.”

Liverpool ONE is managed by investment firm Grosvenor Europe.

Alison Clegg, director of asset management at Grosvenor, commented: “realbuzz is a great addition to St John Street’s line-up, sitting alongside much-loved brands such as Zara, Apple, Office and Victoria’s Secret.

“There is an increasing trend of online brands taking physical space, and Grosvenor is keen to support this evolution as it creates a diverse and modern line-up of retailers.”

She added: “We share the brand’s ethos of promoting a healthy, inspiring and collective community and look forward to seeing this grow at Liverpool ONE.”

Liverpool ONE was represented in the deal by Metis Real Estate and Cushman and Wakefield.