Champion unveils new retail concept at Manchester Arndale

Manchester Arndale has announced that Champion has signed a 10-year lease to open a new 1,980 sq ft concept store within the centre.

The arrival of the athletic apparel brand’s first concept store follows a series of recent lettings at Manchester Arndale, including Arc’teryx, Alo Yoga, XtraFit and ProDirect, reflecting a rise in brands looking to bring flagship stores to Manchester.

The Champion store design is said to be inspired by “no-nonsense gyms, rolling racks, safety cages, and raw steel” which “echoes the spaces where real athletes train”.

Champion said the store will serve as a hub for community activations, workshops, and high-energy workout sessions, and is “designed not only to showcase product, but to bring people together, inspire movement, and celebrate the spirit of challenge in all its forms”.

Steve Gray, head of European Retail Asset Management at Global Mutual, said: “We are delighted to be the first centre to host Champion’s new concept store. Their strong reputation and timeless appeal make them a fantastic addition for our shoppers. The decision by Champion to open here, alongside several other major brands in recent months, such as Alo Yoga and Arc’teryx, is a clear endorsement of Manchester Arndale as a thriving city centre destination where retailers want to be and customers want to shop.”