Why we invested in Derby: Derbion

As well as attracting leading retail and leisure brands, Derbion is playing a key role in Derby’s ongoing regeneration. Here, in her own words, Derbion’s managing director Beth McDonald, outlines the important role the firm is playing in enhancing the city’s vitality.

As Derbion continues to attract leading retail and leisure brands, our location in the heart of Derby means we have an important role to play in contributing to the vitality of the city.

We’re committed to creating a destination that not only meets the evolving needs of our customers and supports the growth of our retail, food and leisure brands, but supports the ongoing regeneration of Derby.

In recent years, this commitment has driven significant investments, innovative leasing strategies, and collaborations with local stakeholders.

Since 2021, over £35 million has been invested across Derbion by new brands such as Frasers, Flannels, TAG Heuer, Castore and H&M Home, as well as by existing retailers on refits and upsizes.

We’ve taken a proactive approach to curating the centre, working closely with brands to ensure they have the right-sized stores in the right locations within Derbion.

For instance, this year we announced that JD, New Look and Ann Summers will open new concept stores at Derbion.

Ann Summers and New Look’s new spaces are open and trading well, with JD’s new 20,175 sq ft flagship store set to open early next year.

Similarly, Quiz has recently reopened in a larger space at Derbion, enhancing its visibility for shoppers.

By actively managing the centre, we have unlocked space to ensure brands benefit from the optimum footprint and location to drive footfall and sales.

This strategy has helped these brands grow by working closely with stores to support their efforts in updating to the latest designs and creating better shopping and retail experiences.

It’s also inspired retailers like Holland & Barrett and Deichmann to invest in enhancing their presence at the centre.

Shopping isn’t just about retail anymore; it’s about experiences. That’s why in 2022, we invested more than £2 million into the refurbishment of our Food Terrace, which introduced a fresh new look, additional seating and new brands including Burger & Sauce, Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen and more.

Our investment has transformed the Food Terrace at Derbion into a vibrant and inviting space that appeals to all types of shoppers, whether they’re grabbing a quick bite or enjoying a leisurely meal with family and friends.

Alongside our daytime visitors, the Food Terrace also remains a busy early evening destination, supporting Showcase Cinema De Lux, Hollywood Bowl and Paradise Island Adventure Golf, as well as Derby Theatre.

Beyond the centre itself, we’re deeply invested in the ongoing regeneration of Derby city centre and work closely with key stakeholders including Derby City Council to drive forward strategic projects.

The Eastern Gateway is a prime example of how we’re helping to reshape the city.

The development, which is delivered by Derbion and part-funded by the Government’s Future High Streets Fund, will introduce a brand-new façade and urban garden, transforming the area opposite the bus station and the eastern entrance to Derbion.

Due for completion during the first half of 2025, the Eastern Gateway will improve connectivity, enhance the look and feel of this important gateway into our city centre and create a welcoming space for everyone to enjoy.

It forms part of an exciting future vision for Derbion, contributing further to the vibrancy and attractiveness of the city centre.

We’ve recently unveiled updated plans for the potential development of three key sites within Derbion’s footprint.

The Derbion Masterplan is a framework for the long-term development of under-used land that aims to complement and support the existing centre and its position within Derby.

It acts as a starting point for exploring future opportunities over the next 10 years and beyond.

With a robust pipeline of citywide development, we’re committed to ensuring Derbion remains at the heart of this growth.

This includes attracting new investment opportunities, strengthening Derby’s reputation as a destination city and giving people even more reasons to visit.

Our investment in Derby is about more than just today; it’s about building a brighter tomorrow.

By continuing to attract the right brands, elevating our shopping, dining and leisure experience for customers, and contributing to citywide regeneration, we’re proud to be part of Derby’s exciting journey.

Derby is a dynamic and changing city and Derbion’s continued transformation will play an important role in ensuring that it continues to thrive.