Sports Direct has officially opened its doors in Chorley.
Customers are finally allowed inside the new multi-fascia store Chorley’s Market Walk as sporting goods retailer Sports Direct and USC expands in Lancashire.
The opening comes as retail stores are allowed to reopen following the national lockdowon lifting.
It is hoped the new store will provide a boost to the town centre, which is one of only a few in the country to see new stores opening during the pandemic.
Councillor Peter Wilson, Deputy Leader of Chorley Council said “We are thrilled that Sports Direct and USC have opened in Chorley.
“The addition of these well-known brands adds to the fantastic variety of businesses that we already have, which will keep visitors coming into Chorley rather than going to neighbouring towns and retail parks.”
In August, Chorley Council announced that the well-known brands, both part of Frasers Group PLC, were to become tenants in the new part of Market Walk, taking the occupancy of the development to around 85 per cent.
The store opened on Wednesday, December 2, along with many other non-essential retailers who were allowed to reopen under the latest Covid-19 restrictions.
Sports Direct and USC have joined M&S Foodhall, Escape Entertainment Venue, Reel Cinema and Calico Lounge who began trading from the new development last winter.
The Sports Direct, boasts huge sporting brands including Nike, Adidas, Under Armour, Asics and Puma. The selection for men, women’s and kids will also include sections dedicated to disciplines such as running, football and outdoor.
The store will also include a USC streetwear and fashion store. USC offers trend focused customers a selection of the season’s premium branded denim, urban fashion, accessories, footwear and beauty. Brands will include Converse, Champion, Levi’s and Hilfiger Denim.
Michael Murray, Head of Elevation at Frasers Group said: “We are really proud to open this new retail destination in Chorley. Our next-generation stores offer customers the biggest brands in sportswear, sports equipment and fashion, all under one roof. As we continue to grow throughout the UK, our ethos and commitment remains the same; we offer customers the biggest and best brands and unrivalled product choice.”
The Chorley Sports Direct store is one of the first in the UK to open with their new branding, which reflects the retailers new elevated store design and revised brand purpose.
Councillor Wilson continued “It’s really great to see that businesses want to trade in Chorley despite these difficult times and they are adapting to the current situation. We have every confidence that we will bounce back from the COVID-19 pandemic and we’re here to support all Chorley businesses.”
Prior to the coronavirus pandemic, new businesses in the Market Walk extension had already had a big impact on visitor numbers to Chorley town centre.
It is hoped the arrival of these well-known brands is set to attract even more visitors in the future.
-- to www.lancs.live
