New store leads the way on the south coast

Garmin has opened its first UK store at Westquay in Southampton.

The global leader in smartwatch and GPS-enabled technology is offering UK visitors its full and extensive range of products in one physical place for the first time in a landmark opening, Hammerson has announced. 

Garmin is targeting both long-time users as well as first-time customers through an immersive brand experience with access to knowledgeable experts in its new store. 

Westquay attracts more than 17 million visitors a year and has a broad, affluent and growing catchment, by population and employment. and with outdoor sports and sea-based activities a key part of life in Southampton and the South Coast, from running and cycling to sailing and golf, the 2,625 sq ft unit will act as a major draw for a wide range of target customers.

Toby Tait, director of asset management at Hammerson, said: “We are thrilled to be partnering with Garmin on its maiden UK store, providing a space for it to bring its full collection of devices into one compelling brand experience for customers. 

“We were quick to understand Garmin’s critical requirement for the right space in the right location to showcase the brand. Garmin boosts an already thriving Southampton destination, with Westquay now fully established as a destination for brands, events and experiences to serve the city and wider region.”

Jon Oliver, managing director at Garmin UK & Ireland, added: “Westquay is a perfect location for us to open our first store. Not only it is down the road from our European headquarters, being so close to the South Coast and New Forest mean that many of our customers come to this area for work and leisure.”

Garmin’s new store is positioned in a prime location alongside other sought-after and premium brands and joins a high-quality mix of global, national and specialist stores alongside a wide range of leisure and eating out options at Westquay.

With 94,400m2 of internal lettable area, major brands include John Lewis, M&S, Space NK, Zara, Sweaty Betty, Pandora and Hugo Boss and the day and night offer includes cinema, bowling and a broad mix of dining options.

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