Sportswear shop Castore has launched its first Northern Ireland store at the site outside Banbridge.
And men’s fashion brand Police has opened its first store on the island of Ireland at The Boulevard.
The openings have been announced as the retail industry embarks on the so-called ‘golden quarter’ – the term for the last three months of the year when Christmas shopping takes place.
The Boulevard, which is owned by Lotus Property, said it recorded its “best summer ever” this year, with a 19% increase in sales and 5% growth in footfall compared to summer 2023.
Police’s offering is described as “luxury, premium clothing and accessories with an urban style” with celebrities like George Clooney, David Beckham and Lewis Hamilton all linked to the brand.
Castore, which was founded by former athletes and brothers Tom and Phil Beahon, is a supplier of multiple football teams such as Ireland and Rangers, rugby clubs Ulster and Harlequins, McLaren Formula 1 and England’s cricket team.
Paul McCann, asset manager at Lotus Property, said: “The Boulevard is consistently breaking its own sales and footfall figures year-on-year and by welcoming both Police and Castore to the scheme, we are on track to finish 2024 as our strongest on record.
“Having unique stores that shoppers can’t find elsewhere is one of the things that sets us apart at The Boulevard and drives our footfall and so we are delighted to continue that trend and become home to two more ‘first’ brands.”
Imran Liaquat, retail director UK at Police, said: “With The Boulevard’s strong customer base, attracting both locals and tourists and diverse range of stores and entertainment outlets, it is the perfect location for us to open our first store in Ireland.
“Northern Ireland has a growing population of fashion-conscious men, particularly young professionals and urban dwellers and our collection can cater for this demand, offering something unique.
“The Boulevard is seeing significant economic growth, with shoppers increasingly drawn to premium and niche brands.
“We are delighted open at The Boulevard and look forward to meeting our new customers.”
Danny Grimshaw, head of retail at Castore, said: “We are thrilled to continue our growth trajectory by opening our first store in Northern Ireland at The Boulevard, Banbridge.
“Operating alongside other premium sportswear brands places us amongst the right customer base to grow our presence in a new market.
“We can’t wait to welcome new customers through our doors and become part of The Boulevard family.”