The 2024 trend among many major retailers that ‘bigger is better’ continues with Hobbs becoming the latest to expand one of its key flagship stores.

The mid-market women’s fashion brand is upsizing its Victoria Leeds store significantly, relocating from Victoria Quarter to a 30% larger unit at Victoria Gate.

Reflecting Hobbs’ “stellar performance” at the Redical-operated destination, the new flagship store “reaffirms [Hobbs owner] TFG London’s continual commitment to Victoria Leeds, as it consolidates it’s brands under one roof, moving Hobbs alongside its Phase Eight and Whistles stores”.

Due to open in November, the new 4,200 sq ft flagship store will allow Hobbs to showcase a wider selection of its signature women’s clothing, shoes, accessories and occasionwear, “in response to greater customer demand enjoyed at the destination”. 

Hobbs’ strategic relocation within Victoria Leeds will also see the brand further complement the cluster of leading British brands established at the destination, including The White Company, Mint Velvet, NEOM Wellbeing and Pour Moi.

Caroline Money, Global Group Director at TFG Brands, said: “The decision to relocate to a larger unit at Victoria Leeds is a clear reflection of the increased demand in a key catchment area for us. We are excited for our loyal customers to now enjoy an elevated experience, with a wider selection of Hobbs’ timeless pieces.”

Rachel Bradburn, Leasing Director at Victoria Leeds, added: “This latest announcement further cements Victoria Leeds’ position as one of the UK’s most trusted premium and luxury retail destination. We are welcoming more visitors than ever before to Victoria Gate, which is a testament to high calibre brands reinvesting and recommitting with us, like those in the TFG London portfolio, but also to Redical’s ongoing commitment to provide an exceptional curated retail mix and customer experience.”

Victoria Leeds has also enjoyed other recent successes with openings by British heritage and lifestyle brand Barbour, and New York-founded perfumery Le Labo.

And the continuing activity also coincides with the destination experiencing “record-breaking” footfall figures during the first half of 2024 compared to 2023.  

“On track for its most successful year in history”, owner Redical said Victoria Gate’s success can be attributed to proactive management, together with immersive placemaking initiatives across the scheme, such as a recent Fashion Week and sold-out catwalk event.