Celebrity chef and retail giant join forces for Arndale launch

The first joint venture between retail giant Next and celebrity chef Gino D’Acampo will open in the refurbished Next Manchester Arndale branch this weekend.

In a deal brokered by specialist Manchester leisure property agent Jenics, Gino’s 200-seater ‘Gino My Pizza and Prosecco Bar’ will be located on the top floor of Next’s UK flagship store.

It will feature the country’s largest selection of Prosecco by the glass, wood-fired ovens, deli, produce shop and ice cream bar.

Jeremy Collins of Jenics said: “Rather than being a concession or leased outlet, usually the norm for leisure offers within a retail store or scheme, this is a pure joint venture between two recognised national brands.

“We saw the potential both of these brands offer each other, having aligned interests with a shared customer demographic and a genuinely complementary offer.

“The success of this deal will lead to other retailers forming ‘relationships proper’ with food and beverage brands to enhance the shoppers’ experience and create the additional pull of a destination experience where the whole family can enjoy a day out.

“The unquestionable appeal of Next’s customer base will be enhanced with the Gino offer and this will in turn lead to the holy grail of increased customer visits and longer ‘dwell time’.”

The Manchester opening is to be followed next month by a second branch in Hull (Kingswood Park) with a national roll-out starting next year.

Collins added: “This JV is a result of really understanding our clients’ customer base, brand values and business case.

“For Gino, this is an opportunity to break ‘alternative’ ground in Manchester’s culinary scene and engage with a whole new audience looking to combine a shopping experience with relaxing leisure offer.”

Jenics also advised on Gino’s ‘My Restaurants’ openings in Leeds, Manchester, Harrogate, Camden and Liverpool.