GLOBAL lifestyle, technology and entertainment retailer Harvey Norman is set to open a new store in part of the vacant former Debenhams unit at Merry Hill.
Harvey Norman Merry Hill will offer luxury furniture including sofas, dining sets and outdoor furniture, along with homeware products including home appliances and audio visual and technology products.
The new flagship store will occupy a significant portion of the empty former Debenhams unit, where it will join German-born experience and community driven fitness operator XTRAFIT which is set to open a new gym in the summer.
Jonathan Poole, centre manager at Merry Hill, said: “We’re delighted to share the news that global lifestyle, technology, and entertainment brand, Harvey Norman, is coming to Merry Hill.
“Alongside the UK debut from fitness operator XTRAFIT, Harvey Norman will occupy much of the former Debenhams space in a store experience unique to Merry Hill.
“With a wide range of homewares, furniture and appliances, the store will have something for everyone, including cameras for budding photographers, kitchen equipment for foodies, and the latest big brand TVs, smartphones, consoles, and laptops, for tech enthusiasts.”
He added: “The investment from this retail giant comes at an exciting time for the centre with 2024 promising further new additions.
“We’re continuing to evolve, so our visitors can enjoy everything they need under one roof, alongside a destination for eating, drinking and relaxing.”
Katie Page, CEO at Australia owned multi-national Harvey Norman, which boasts more than 300 stores worldwide, added: “With its exceptional connectivity and a population around the same size as New Zealand – where we have 42 stores – it’s clear that the West Midlands represents a significant growth opportunity for Harvey Norman.
“We have been in the UK for many years with two stores in Northern Ireland, so we look forward to opening our new flagship store in Merry Hill later this year.”
Andy Street, Mayor of the West Midlands, said of the news: “It’s wonderful that Harvey Norman - a renowned retail brand - is expanding into England and even better news that its journey to our shores begins with a new store right here in our region at Merry Hill.
“Not only does this news mean we can look forward to an exciting addition to our region’s impressive retail offering, it also means we will see hundreds of jobs created for local people.
“I’m pleased to see that a firm of Harvey Norman’s stature has recognised all that we have to offer as an international business destination - including our diverse talent pool, central UK location and high-quality real estate. With the UK-Australia FTA now in force, I look forward to welcoming even more Australian businesses and entrepreneurs.”
Established in 1982, Harvey Norman has rapidly expanded its global presence over the last 14 years.
The investment in Dudley will create around 100 new jobs across a range of areas, including sales, administration, marketing, operations, warehousing and management.
The new store is expected to open in the autumn this year.
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