ELECTRICALS AND TECH NEWS

Garmin has opened its first UK retail store in Southampton’s Westquay Shopping Centre.

Situated on the Upper Shopping Level, the 1,500 square foot space offers the company’s range of consumer electronics, including smartwatches, cycling computers and golf devices, as well as products for cars and the marine industry.

The store is close to Garmin’s European headquarters in Romsey which has been its base for more than 30 years.

Jon Oliver, managing director Garmin UK & Ireland, said: “We are thrilled to bring Garmin’s extensive product range to one location on the high street in the UK for the first time.

“We’re passionate about our products and excited for more customers to experience them first-hand, whether that’s through speaking to our expert staff or attending the events we will hold for the local community.

“It feels fitting that the next step in our growth in the UK is the opening of this store in Southampton’s Westquay, down the road from our European headquarters.”

Garmin will be looking to engage with the community through a range of store activations. It is also continuing to invest in the Southampton area through its Garmin Ride Out cycling event with Action Medical Research, and its sponsorships of AFC Totton, the New Forest Marathon and other events in the area including the Southampton Boat Show and Cowes Week Regatta.

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. 

“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.”