Victoria Leeds, owned and operated by Redical, is proud to announce that Australian-born luxury skin care brand, Aesop, is to unveil its first store in the North of England, in Victoria Quarter. This latest signing cements Victoria Leeds’ position as a leading UK retail destination, showcasing its ability in attracting best-in-class brand debuts.
Measuring 753 sq ft, the store is set to open in January 2025 and will showcase Aesop’s full range of fragrance, skin, hair and body care formulations, with efficacy and sensory pleasure in mind. Customers can expect the brand’s signature hospitality, with well-informed service that fosters balance and well-being.
As a Certified B Corporation™, Aesop is dedicated to sustainability and local engagement. The Victoria Leeds store will honour the heritage of the Grade II listed space while reflecting Aesop’s craftsmanship and ethical ethos. The design aims to weave into the fabric of the destination, creating a unique experience for customers.
Rachel Bradburn, Leasing Director at Victoria Leeds, commented: "Aesop choosing Victoria Leeds for their first store in the North of England strengthens our position as the premier destination for luxury brands. It’s a testament to our discerning customer base, but also to Aesop’s thoughtful approach in selecting locations where they can integrate seamlessly into the local community. We’re excited to see their unique store design come to life when the store opens, further enhancing our distinctive retail offering."
Ryad Djellas, General Manager, Aesop, European Zone, commented: “The experience within any Aesop store, and our relationship with our customers, is never a simply transactional one: it is also educational, prescriptive, and sensorial. We have been eager to open our first signature store in the North for some time now and were delighted when the opportunity within the historied County Arcade presented itself. The design of our spaces matters deeply to us. We aim to create something of merit, connected to the context of the Arcade. We hope to weave ourselves into the fabric of Leeds and look forward to welcoming customers in the new year.”
This announcement follows the news that Boodles, the iconic British family-owned jeweller, has more than doubled the trading space of its Victoria Quarter store, from 1,200 sq ft to 2,700 sq ft with a new entertainment space, named The Rose Garden Suite.
Lunson Mitchenall and Central Retail acted for Victoria Leeds, whilst Bruce Gillingham Pollard represented Aesop.
