H&M signs up to Rochdale Riverside development

The Rochdale Riverside development is progressing well

Global retail giant H&M will be coming to Rochdale for the first time after a deal was struck to bring it to Rochdale’s new £80m retail and leisure development, Rochdale Riverside.

The Swedish multinational retail giant will occupy a circa 22,500 sq ft unit across two floors within the scheme, joining existing occupiers M&S, Next, River Island, JD Sports, Boots and Reel Cinemas.

Known for its fast-fashion clothing for men, women, teenagers and children, H&M and its associated companies operate in 62 countries with over 4,500 stores.

The news marks a major step forward for the scheme, which will bring a variety of retail and leisure units to the heart of Rochdale town centre. It is being delivered by Genr8 developments in partnership with Kajima and Rochdale Borough Council.

Councillor Allen Brett, leader of Rochdale Borough Council, said: “Rochdale Riverside is a major part of our ongoing £400m regeneration programme, which is creating a thriving town centre that people increasingly want to visit and spend time in. It’s clear that Rochdale is on the up.

“H&M is a great addition to this scheme, and we expect their presence will encourage other potential occupiers to come on board. I’m pleased to see this landmark project reach another key milestone and we look forward to making more positive announcements.”

Mike Smith, partner at Genr8 Developments, said: “We are really pleased to agree a deal to bring H&M to Riverside. This is exactly the calibre of retail offering we are looking to bring to the scheme. The tenant mix we have already attracted will only be complemented by this deal.

“The scheme is now over 60% let and with works continuing to forge ahead, completion and launch will soon be upon us.”

Cheetham & Mortimer and Lambert Smith Hampton (LSH) are joint agents on the scheme.

Tim Letts, director at LSH, said: “This is a massive endorsement for the town and the Rochdale Riverside development. Securing an international brand such as H&M, which is widely regarded as one of the premier fashion facias, is a fantastic boost for everyone involved.”

H&M has been contacted for comment.