22
May
Next opens its latest concept store in Ripon
The Stray Ferret was the first media outlet to report on Next's decision to open a store in Ripon and since then we have published a number of updates for our readers, including today's store opening, which is free to read. You can help support independent local journalism for as little as 14p a day by subscribing to the Stray Ferret. To get started, just click here.
Leading fashion retailer Next opened the doors at its new Ripon store at noon today (May 22) and before the first customers arrived, the Stray Ferret was invited in for a preview and a chance to speak with senior managers.
The latest addition to Next's 450-strong UK portfolio has brought more than 30 jobs to the city — many of them taken by local people.
The 8,777 sq ft store, which includes a mezzanine floor, has menswear, womenswear and childrenswear departments.
It follows the latest Next store concept design and specification, including the wall finishes, flooring and frame types, as well as spacious fitting rooms for customers. There's a large atrium and LED ceiling features throughout.
Megan Lunt, pictured with Next's UK sales director Andy Lewis (left) and North Yorkshire area manager Nick Frere
Andy Lewis, who is Next's UK sales director, said:
St Michael's Retail Park is an ideal location for us and the demographic of Ripon and the wider area suggests that we will do well here.
Nick Frere, the retailer's area manager for North Yorkshire, added:
It's great that the majority of vacances have been taken by local people.
Store manager Megan Lunt previously managed Next's store in Catterick and has been with the company for five years. She said:
All of our team have worked incredibly hard to get the store ready for today's opening and we look forward to welcoming customers over the coming days, weeks and months.
Mr and Mrs Obrinje are regular Next customers who are delighted that the store has opened in their home city.
A look inside the store
The womenswear department features this large screen television
The childrenswear department
Menswear can be found on the upper floor
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