Bullring's Upper Floor Faces Significant Retail Transformation
Birmingham's iconic Bullring shopping centre is experiencing a substantial retail shakeup, with the upper floor of the East Mall, located on the Selfridges side, being particularly hard hit by recent closures. This follows a series of changes earlier in the year, including the departures of SDMN and 3, making way for new brands.
A Wave of High-Profile Store Closures
This week has seen several notable stores shut their doors. AllSaints vacated its unit after less than a year of occupancy, though its products remain available within Selfridges. Shortly after, Kate Spade closed after six years in the same area, while Russell and Bromley began a sale ahead of its impending closure opposite these shops.
Adding to the changes, Tag Heuer has also closed its boutique after three years in the Bullring, with hoarding now covering its unit at the end of the mall row. These closures mark a significant shift in the retail landscape of this prime shopping location.
New Openings and Returning Brands Offer Hope
Amid the closures, there is positive news for shoppers. Dr Martens has announced it will take over the old Diesel unit, expanding its presence in the Bullring, where it already operates a store near the former Kate Spade location. Additionally, brands like Subdued, Lululemon, and Victoria's Secret are still scheduled to open, with hopes that Stradivarius might also launch in the future.
In a nostalgic turn, Irregular Choice, which previously operated on Link Street before closing in 2021 and ceasing trading in 2025, has announced a comeback. However, it remains unclear if this will include physical stores in the Bullring or other locations.
These developments highlight the dynamic nature of retail in Birmingham, as the Bullring adapts to evolving consumer trends and brand strategies. Shoppers can expect further updates as the centre continues to reinvent itself, balancing closures with exciting new additions to enhance the shopping experience.
