Retail Wrap: Omega’s boutique launch; King St suits Charles Tyrwhitt

LUXURY watch brand Omega has launched its first stand-alone North West store.

The Swiss company, the official timekeeper to the Olympic Games, has opened a small bespoke unit at the Trafford Centre.

Leading British heptathlete Jessica Ennis and Bolton comedian Paddy McGuinness were among the guests at the launch at Room on Wednesday evening.

Frederic Nardin, brand director of Omega UK, commented:  “We are delighted to open our first boutique in the north of England and are thrilled that Jessica could join us to mark the opening of our Manchester Trafford Centre boutique.”

The new unit is the largest collection available outside of London including watches, fine jewellery and the recently introduced leather collection. 

Omega Trafford is the fifth in the UK – three are in central London and the fourth is at Terminal One in Heathrow airport.

North West jeweller Beaverbrooks is operating the new Omega store, building on its links with the brand, which is part of the Swatch Group.

Hale-based communications agency Peppermint PR promoted the event.

Meanwhile luxury shirt-maker and tailor Charles Tyrwhitt has opened its first store outside the South East in King Street, Manchester.

Founder and chief executive Nick Wheeler,  who started the company in 1986, said: “We believe that King Street is making a comeback in Manchester. It sits at the heart of the city and has a rich history as a retail destination. We think it fits well with our brand.”

Around a dozen jobs have been created by the opening, which is the first of a major roll-out plan by the company. Mr Wheeler wants to open 50 stores over the nexy five years.

He added: “Manchester is important to us because we have a huge number of mail order and Internet customers in and around the city. It is great to be able to reward their loyalty with a store they can visit and see our collections in the flesh.”

Sales for Charles Tyrwhitt last year grew 30% to £65m.