Trio of independent brands bringing something different to Metrocentre
It’s been dominated by big name brands, but Metrocentre is now welcoming a wave of independents.
A new hub of independent businesses is opening its doors for shoppers.
The new hub of 10 businesses will showcase independent and emerging brands in a new development at the Metrocentre.
The Crescent – so-called because of the curved design of its shopfronts – is transforming what was formerly The Forum in Upper Green Mall into 10 retail units arranged around a central, sociable space which centre bosses say will have a “village-like feel.”
Local coffee brand Filto was the first to open its doors at The Crescent earlier this month. Now, the next three indy retailers have been announced.
Bespoke jewellery boutique, Thatype, is embarking on the next chapter of its growth, relocating from its original Newcastle city centre premises to an all-new store at The Crescent, where it will stock its collections of custom-made rings, necklaces, bracelets and earrings, supported by its online shop.
Similarly, multiple award-winning men’s barber and hairdresser, Webster & Carr, is looking to build on the success of its hugely popular Gosforth venue with a second location, opening the doors to a new store at The Crescent, offering styling, grooming, cuts and shaves, along with carefully curated fragrances.
Meanwhile, Pokémon and trading card games specialist, Aqua TCG, will open its first ever store at The Crescent, having amassed a strong following at card shows in and around the North East region and wider UK.
Noah Knapton, Asset Manager at Sovereign Centros from CBRE, Asset Managers of Metrocentre, said: “As these latest signings prove, the North East can lay claim to a wealth of small businesses, start-ups and scale-ups.
“What better platform to showcase their creativity and to support their further growth than The Crescent – our new, dedicated space for independent and emerging brands.
“For the retailers themselves, it offers a prime location with high footfall and unrivalled visibility in the region. For our customers, it delivers an even richer mix of stores, services and experiences, with more great additions still to be announced.”
Mia Fang, Owner of Thatype, said: “What appealed most about The Crescent is its vision of creating a space where established brands and independent businesses can thrive alongside one another. It provides small businesses like ours with the opportunity to reach new customers, grow our brand, and share our passion and craftsmanship with a much wider audience.”
Shopping centre bosses says space at The Crescent is in high demand and with only a few of the 10 available units remaining, more signings will be announced soon.