Derbion celebrates another year of new openings and investments

Throughout the year, Derbion has welcomed 13 new brands, including three new restaurants in the recently renovated Food Terrace.

Following a £2m investment, the food terrace is now fully occupied with operators like Chi, Tortilla, and Villa Express joining established names such as Popeyes, KFC, and Burger & Sauce.

Subway and GDK have also made a presence through refurbishments and relocation.

Derbion has expanded its retail offerings, introducing global brands like Rituals, MINISO, TUI, and Yankee Candle. The Hatch initiative has brought in local fashion retailer 1NE, supporting small businesses to grow.

In addition to new leases, existing retailers have invested over £3m in refurbishments and expansions.

Goldsmiths has extended its showroom by 1,000 sq ft, introducing a second store before Christmas, while Beaverbrooks has increased its space to 1,628 sq ft and added a standalone TAG Heuer boutique.

Looking ahead, Derbion’s development potential received a boost in 2023 with planning permission granted for the Derbion Masterplan, pending approval by the Secretary of State.

This framework for the next decade envisions new homes, commercial spaces, public areas, and walkable streets to enhance connections with Derby City Centre and the River Derwent.

Managing Director at Derbion, Beth McDonald, said: “Since we transferred to new independent ownership in 2021 we have successfully delivered a strong leasing strategy that has transformed the centre with a wide range of leading retail and leisure brands, and this year has been no exception.

“We continue to broaden our offer for customers through new and exciting openings and expanded stores in addition to playing an important role in our wider community and the city of Derby. Our Derbion Cares charitable initiatives have included our hugely popular school uniform swap shop, designed to support families across Derbyshire with the rising cost of uniforms. This year we have also continued our sponsorship of the flagship running event, the Derbion Ramathon, alongside supporting the fantastic Museum of the Moon at Derby Cathedral, all helping to bring wider footfall to the city centre.

“Leasing momentum continues into 2024 and we’re looking forward to announcing our next phase of lettings in the new year.”