Fenwick secures Tunbridge Wells future with lease extension and development optimism
Fenwick, the independent department store group, has confirmed its continued operation of the Tunbridge Wells town centre store. The retailer has reached an agreement with the local council to extend its lease at its current site within the Royal Victoria Place shopping centre, solidifying its presence in the Kent town.
The decision to renew the lease underscores Fenwick’s strong confidence in Tunbridge Wells as a viable retail location and highlights its unwavering commitment to investing in the local community. Fenwick informed Retail Times that this agreement was significantly influenced by the substantial improvements made to Royal Victoria Place by the Tunbridge Wells Borough Council since its acquisition of the centre.
Furthermore, Fenwick has expressed its support for the council’s ambitious emerging development plans for the centre. These plans are anticipated to bolster Tunbridge Wells’ reputation and position it as a premier shopping destination within the South East region, promising a revitalised future for retail in the area.
Tunbridge Wells in Kent is one of Fenwick’s eight locations across the United Kingdom. Its portfolio includes its flagship store in Newcastle, which assumed this role after the company’s departure from London's New Bond Street a few years prior, alongside other branches in Kingston, Brent Cross, Colchester, Canterbury, Bracknell, and York.
Hugo Fenwick, Retail Managing Director at Fenwick, commented on the decision: “This reflects not only our confidence in the town as a thriving retail destination, but also our commitment to the local community we’ve been proud to serve since 1992. Both the improvements we’ve seen at Royal Victoria Place together with the Council’s ambitious plans for the Centre gives us considerable optimism for the future.”
Adding to this positive outlook, Katherine Farish, Store Manager at Fenwick Tunbridge Wells, stated: “Despite the challenging times for the retail sector, we’ve seen such positive momentum in recent months, and the improvements to the centre have created a much better experience for customers. Our team is committed to Tunbridge Wells’ retail future and we look forward to welcoming both existing and new customers through our doors.”
