Uniqlo opens in Cambridge, more to follow

Japanese global apparel retailer Uniqlo has opened at Cambridge’s Grand Arcade while combining a “celebration of local creativity, exclusive collaborations and community connection.”

Its taken a revitalised retail space on St Andrew’s Street spanning two floors and showcasing Uniqlo LifeWear across women’s and men’s, alongside its AW26 collection, featuring a “spectrum of colour palettes, contemporary silhouettes and seasonal fabric innovations.”

Uniqlo UK chief operating office Alessandro Dudech said: “Bricks-and-mortar retail remains an important part of our strategy, allowing us to connect directly with customers and communities, and we are committed to continuing our expansion across the UK.”

He added that the he store’s partnerships with local organisations including the University of Cambridge and local illustrator Lele Saa harnesses “support and connection to the local community [and have been] invaluable here welcoming students, residents and visitors to Uniqlo Grand Arcade.”

The store also features a large-scale mural by Saa feating “historic landmarks, riverside scenery and everyday moments… capture[ing] the spirit of Cambridge through a contemporary illustrated map that unfolds across the store’s staircase.”

The university connection “celebrates the spirit of curiosity and discovery that continues to define Cambridge today”, the some of the collections bringing a “fresh perspective to classic collegiate style”, including exclusive UTme! T-shirts featuring campus-inspired inspired designs.

Uniqlo currently operates 25 stores across the UK and continues to expand its national footprint. On 15 October it also open its second store in Manchester located in the Trafford Centre followed by Chester, while other openings are scheduled for Bath (next spring/summer), Brighton, Canary Wharf and Leeds.