The importance of brick-and-mortar clothes stores shouldn’t be underestimated.

Not only do they drive higher conversion rates, but are recognised to enhance the retail experience and reduce the cost of ecommerce returns for both retailer and consumer.

Here are our four top picks for where fashion brands will set up shop in the UK in 2024:

Flight for the best – brands continue to reposition and upscale their offer within key retail markets often in prime city centres, taking space where prominent voids have created opportunities for them to diversify and expand their ranges in line with their online offer. Expect to see more activity from Zara, Mango, Uniqlo and Suits Direct.

Affluent commuter and market towns – agile working and a post-pandemic consumer behaviour has seen a strengthening for retail in smaller towns, particularly for food and beverage outlets. This is creating a subsequent increase in demand for space from upmarket retail brands such as Joules, White Stuff, Crew and Sea Salt that appeal to consumers with higher disposable incomes.

Out of town retail ‘perks’ – the resilience and convenience within the out of town retail park market continues to drive its popularity amongst consumers and feed demand for mass-market retailer stalwarts, like M&S, Next, Mountain Warehouse and Primark, who are all looking to increase their out of town presence. Limited space in these locations is driving up rents.

The best of the rest – the move of certain brands out of second tier high streets and a rebasing of rents, is presenting an opportunity and a surge in demand for value fashion retailers to enter new markets, often to become the main show in town and keeping the hopes of survival for challenged town centres alive. Peacocks, Yours, Trespass and Bon Marché are all increasing their stores.

Further information

Contact Stuart Moncur or Alan Spencer

Lucky Seven – Retail & leisure occupational trends 2024