Next in Sunderland expands premises by 40 per cent

A Sunderland retail store has opened with expanded premises after closing down due to the pandemic.

Next, which specialises in fashion and homeware, has taken over the vacant unit beside its existing store at the Bridges, increasing the store size from 10,221 sq ft to 14,710 sq ft.

Further work is also underway to create an extended homewares section, which should be opening in four to five weeks’ time.

Duncan Allen, building and services director at the Bridges, commented: “Next is an extremely popular store and it’s fantastic to see the confidence this major retailer has had in Sunderland with its expansion plans.

“It’s great news in the light of the challenging time retail has had generally over the last few months and further confirmation that the Bridges is continuing to have a positive impact on the local economy.

“It’s an additional incentive for shoppers to come to the centre, particularly as there will now be an even wider range of items for them to choose from.”