The iconic toy brand Playmobil has made its long-awaited debut on the British high street, opening its very first UK store at the Ashford Designer Outlet in Kent. The launch on November 20, 2025, has generated significant excitement, offering parents a new destination for Christmas gifts and introducing fresh competition to the UK's toy retail sector.
A New Toy Destination for Kent
Shoppers flocked to the new store, which boasts a vast array of products. The selection ranges from the classic Playmobil sets that have delighted generations to accessory packs that are sure to be popular items found under the Christmas tree this year. This strategic move follows the successful establishment of Playmobil stores in its home markets of Germany and Austria, marking a significant expansion of its physical retail presence.
Elevating the Retail Offering
Peter Heritage, a representative for the outlet, expressed his enthusiasm to KentOnline. He highlighted the fantastic response from visitors and the perfect timing of the opening for Christmas shoppers. Heritage noted that the centre had previously been "quite light" on dedicated toy shops, with only Ravensburger, making the arrival of Playmobil a welcome addition that strengthens this retail category. The new store is situated in a prime location opposite guest services, ensuring high visibility and footfall.
Broader Retail Context
The arrival of Britain's newest toy shop coincides with other retail resurgences. The popular 90s fashion brand, Juicy Couture, is planning a wider UK takeover nearly a decade after its stores were axed. The fashion giant aims to launch more shops in the capital city next year. While the exact London location remains undisclosed, more details are expected by early spring 2026. This follows the successful opening of a 1,200 sq ft Juicy Couture branch at Westfield Stratford City in December 2024, which has been drawing customers from across the country.
