Danish retailer moves into Manchester city centre

Danish retail chain Søstrene Grene is set to open a new store in Manchester city centre after being advised on the lease of the site by Forbes Solicitors.

Søstrene Grene sells contemporary and affordable Scandi furnishings and crafts and has 250 stores across Europe.

The store concept artfully combines classical music, beautiful displays and telling the story of its heritage. The brand offers refined and innovative product ranges, chosen on the basis of being both practical and aesthetically pleasing.

Helen Marsh, a partner in Manchester-based Forbes’ commercial property team, advised the retailer on acquiring the former Nationwide Building Society base in Cross Street, a bustling street in the very heart of Manchester.

The new 3,000 sq ft store is in a prestigious location as it is part of The Royal Exchange building and is Grade II-listed.

Helen said: “This is the second store I have advised Søstrene Grene on in the Manchester area, the first one being Altrincham. I am delighted to see the business continuing to go from strength to strength and wish them all the best with the opening of this new store.”

Jonathan Cooper, Søstrene Grene’s UK joint venture partner, said: “We are delighted to have been able to work with Helen again and value the support and expertise she has provided in relation to this key move for the business. We are very pleased to be on target for opening our store in time for the busy trading period in the run up to Christmas.”

Helen worked alongside property agent Matt Illingworth, of Hynes Illingworth, Manchester, to acquire the site.