New extension unveiled at Next store in The Bridges as it expands into unit next door

It is almost half the size again following the opening of its new homewares department.

The company took 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. It was launched in July 2020 with a large childrenswear section on the ground floor.

Now shoppers can try the homewares section on the upper level. The new department opened for the first time on Saturday, August 29.

Next confirmed earlier this year that it had plans for a larger presence in Sunderland, providing a boost to retail in the city centre.

Homewares is a very popular part of the Next business and offers customers an extensive range of home accessories, such as wall art, mirrors and vases. The company hopes its bigger Bridges’ shop will attract more custom to Sunderland’s city centre.

Duncan Allen is the building and services director at the Bridges shopping centre. He said the first stage of the expansion had been well received, and that he was sure the second phrase would prove to be be equally popular.

He said: “The new childrenswear department has attracted a whole host of shoppers.

“And we know how much people love Next’s home décor items so we can’t wait for everyone to see all the fantastic items on offer.”

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