Debenhams partners with local food companies

Department story chain Debenhams has partnered with independent local food companies to offer a variety of food options to customers.

The new initiative, which has been tested in the company’s central Manchester, Trafford and Oxford Street stores, has led Debenhams with an 11% uplift in food sales after concessions of food retailers Franco Manca, Creams and The Real Greek.

With the initiative, Debenhams’ division is operating 65 concessions and 151 owned-and-operated restaurants, offering food and drink pop-ups including Manchester gin, Alex’s Bakery cupcakes, Frizzenti fizz on tap, Zizo’s Gelato ice cream rolls, Waffle Island and Pococello.

Head of external food at Debenhams, Sam Shutt, said: “Debenhams food offering serves millions of customers that visit our 175 plus UK and ROI department stores each year. Our customers know that when they walk through the doors they will find a variety of food options and we want to support local businesses that bring something new to our dining experiences – from locally produced gin to cupcakes.”