What: Frasers Group has opened new stores for Sports Direct and Flannels at Gateshead’s Metrocentre, transforming the former Debenhams unit.

Why it is important: The transformation of the former Debenhams unit into flagship spaces for luxury fashion, sports retail, and a hybrid gym, offers a diverse range of experiences for shoppers.

The flagship 50,000sq ft Flannels store on the ground floor features luxury fashion brands like Givenchy, Marc Jacobs, and Vivienne Westwood, as well as contemporary brands such as Amiri and Off-White. It also includes a beauty shop with fragrance counters from Burberry and Moncler. The store now offers the newly-added Kylie Cosmetics and a Dermalogica Skin treatment room.

On the first floor, Frasers unveiled a new 50,000sq ft Sports Direct store with specialist areas for running, football, and outdoor sports across men’s, women’s, and children’s wear. The store also accommodates Frasers' USC, Games, and Evans Cycles brands. Additionally, the group's Everlast Gyms is opening its 10th elevated and largest hybrid gym, providing a variety of fitness areas, including a full-size boxing ring, saunas, and chill tubs.

Frasers Group opened ‘revolutionary’ Sports Direct and Flannels stores