Executives at a UK-wide homewares retailer say they are ”bemused” by a claim it had sealed a deal to set up as a new anchor store in Dundee’s Wellgate Centre.
Property managers acting on behalf of the owners of the centre announced that B&M Retail had agreed a 10-year lease to set up a 10,000 sq ft Homestore just off the Murraygate.
The outlet was said to be scheduled to be open in time for Christmas, with around 20 jobs being created in the city.
That prompted Wellgate management to welcome the opening of a new store, saying the key tenancy pointed to ”exciting times” ahead for the shopping centre.
But on Wednesday evening a spokeswoman for B&M denied the claims, insisting the firm had signed no such deal.
”No agreement has yet been reached, and we are looking at a number of sites,” she said. ”The letting agents of the centre are keen to secure B&M as a tenant. But we are bemused they are announcing lettings that simply haven’t been agreed yet.”
The Wellgate has been left with several empty units in recent times, thanks in no small part to the continuing financial downturn and its impact on consumer confidence.
Several chains have operated from the prospective site of the B&M store, including Virgin and Zavvi, and a string of discount retailers.
Earlier, commercial manager Marion Crerar had welcomed the news of B&M’s investment, and the opening of new Gift World and Virgin Media outlets last month.
”This is an exciting time for Wellgate Shopping Centre and Dundee shoppers, and the new retailers are a great match for our great value offering,” she continued.
”To see both national and independent retailers make roots in the city, and choose Wellgate as their new home, is extremely positive, especially in the current economic climate.
”This demonstrates the continued popularity of Wellgate as the home of great value shopping.
”Wellgate continues to offer shoppers a diverse mix of retailers and Virgin Media, Gift World and B&M Retail are excellent additions.”
Specialist commercial property firm Orchard Street Investment Management, which manages the centre on behalf of owner St James Place property funds, said it had let three units to B&M and that missives had been signed, subject to the completion of ongoing works.
Orchard Street’s Philip Rodger said B&M was a ”well-established” brand, and would be a good addition.
”We are working hard to create a strong mix of family and value tenants at Wellgate Shopping Centre that both complement each other and augment the scheme overall,” he said.
Tenants at the shopping centre include Virgin Media, BhS, Home Bargains, Superdrug and New Look.
Estelle Forrester, retail director at Orchard Street’s agent Savills, said: ”We are delighted to see the continued popularity of Dundee’s Wellgate Shopping Centre, with this letting following Virgin Media’s arrival in May this year.
”B&M Retail will add a new dimension to the centre and provide a great draw for customers.”