Major fashion brand Universal Works are set to open a new standalone store in their hometown of Nottingham in a deal brokered by FHP Property Consultants.
Universal Works was founded in Nottingham by David Keyte and Stephanie Porritt in 2009. They have seen huge growth over recent years and the brand is now stocked across more than 300 stores globally.
The new standalone Nottingham shop comes after they outgrew their current space above Rough Trade in Nottingham’s Hockley. The shop is situated in a prominent position at 120-122 Derby Road and forms part of the Canning Chambers redevelopment. It has accommodation over ground floor and basement measuring approximately 1,126ft².
Canning Chambers is a period building at the top of Derby Road on the edge of Nottingham city centre. After standing derelict for many years the building was purchased by landlord Wollaton Nottingham Limited who have undertaken major refurbishment in and out to create a beautiful, sympathetic, mixed use building comprising residential upper floors and retail space at ground and basement levels.
David Keyte, co-founder of Universal Works, says: “We have outgrown our current space within Rough Trade so are really pleased to be opening the doors to a bigger and bolder, standalone store on Derby Road. We are not your typical ‘high street’ kind of operator and prefer alternative neighbourhood style locations with potential and community spirit. Derby Road has evolved over the last few years and we can’t wait to open the doors and become part of the community here.”
Oliver Marshall, director at FHP, says: “The letting to Universal Works is a major step forward for the location on Derby Road, but also for the city of Nottingham, showcasing the success of a homegrown business. This a really exciting brand with a massive following and hopefully it will encourage more brands to the area and Nottingham.
“This section of Derby Road has improved so much over the years and is now an exciting location on the edge of the city centre with a really eclectic mix of retail, leisure, offices and residential creating a community feel.
“We are also marketing the 2 units adjacent to Universal Works part of the same development and have some very good interest from more exciting businesses.”
FHP acted on behalf of private landlord Wollaton Nottingham Limited to secure the letting to Universal Works at 120-122 Derby Road. The property comprises a prominent double fronted retail unit with a ground floor area of 578ft² and basement ancillary of 548ft². Universal Works have committed to a long term lease of the property.
