New Retail Additions Enhance Gloucester Quays Shopping Experience
Gloucester Quays shopping centre has further diversified its retail portfolio with the opening of two new stores: a nostalgic sweet shop and a contemporary eyewear brand. This development underscores the centre's ongoing commitment to providing a comprehensive and varied shopping environment for visitors.
Mr Simms Sweet Shop Brings Retro Charm
Mr Simms, a beloved confectioner established in 2004 in Leek, has secured a central 2,117 square foot unit at Gloucester Quays. This marks the brand's third branch in the South West region, joining approximately 60 locations across the United Kingdom. The shop specializes in offering a mix of traditional and contemporary sweets, catering to both nostalgic adults and younger customers seeking classic treats.
Brand Eyewear Offers Premium Vision Solutions
Simultaneously, Brand Eyewear has inaugurated a 505 square foot store at the shopping centre. The retailer features an extensive selection of designer eyewear from renowned brands such as Ray-Ban, Oakley, Ralph Lauren, Georgio Armani, and DKNY. A distinctive 'lens bar' allows shoppers to experiment with various lens colours, reflection coatings, and frame materials, enhancing the customisation and purchasing experience.
Management and Founder Perspectives
Paul Carter, asset director at Peel Retail & Leisure, which operates Gloucester Quays, commented on the strategic significance of these openings. "The arrivals of Mr Simms Sweet Shop and Brand Eyewear highlight the broad and diverse retail offer that Gloucester Quays has become renowned for," he stated. "As a crossover outlet destination, we aim to cater to every consumer desire and visit purpose. These new additions reinforce our dedication to delivering exceptional retail, elevating guest experiences, and fostering a full day-out atmosphere alongside our extensive food, beverage, and leisure options."
Renee Broughton Johnson, founder of Brand Eyewear, expressed enthusiasm about the location. "Launching our first store at Gloucester Quays represents a pivotal milestone for Brand Eyewear," she said. "Selecting the right location is crucial when introducing new concepts, and from the initial viewing, it was clear that Gloucester Quays is a premier destination to showcase our excellent customer service and value-driven products. We already feel integrated into Gloucester's leading outlet shopping environment."
Recent and Upcoming Developments at Gloucester Quays
These store openings are part of a broader expansion initiative at Gloucester Quays. Earlier this year, the shopping centre announced three new eateries set to launch:
- Banchina Italian restaurant
- Muse Brasserie, a French fusion dining establishment
- Umami, operated by COSMO Restaurant Group, scheduled to open in summer 2026
Additionally, in February 2026, Gloucester Quays introduced Clip 'n Climb, a family-friendly climbing attraction. Situated on the upper deck, this venue boasts 19 climbing walls with unique challenges like the 'Tree Trunk', designed to mimic climbing a real tree, and the 'Speed Climb' for competitive enthusiasts. The facility also includes Play Den, a four-level soft play area for younger children, and the on-site South Ridge Café.
The shopping centre's retail expansion continued from the previous year, welcoming brands such as Søstrene Grene, Ben Sherman, Label Yard, and Men Kind in 2025. These cumulative developments position Gloucester Quays as a dynamic and evolving retail hub in the South West, consistently attracting new businesses and enhancing visitor engagement through diverse shopping, dining, and leisure experiences.
