July 26, 2016
Weston-super-Mare’s Sovereign shopping centre is set to change the image of traditional shopping centre food courts by offering six new units to national and independent local retailers, as well as adding a sense of fun to its food offering.
Commencing week 25th July, a dramatic refurbishment of the food court will transform the Sovereign shopping centre’s food hall into a light and airy, modern design with a traditional feel. Work will be completed by September.
The new food court will be named The Galley. Drawing inspiration from its proximity to the sea and the views which can be enjoyed from the new seating area, it will be decorated in a modern seaside style, with clean lines and good design.
Adding to the sense of fun, the new food court will have a grand piano for customers to play on, and a traditional ice-cream van for young and old to enjoy that holiday feeling.
Commenting on the food court refurbishment, Vixcroft chief executive, Daniel Carter said: “We are committed to not only the regeneration of the Sovereign shopping centre but also to the regeneration of Weston-super-Mare. We want to see Weston’s economy thrive, and we want play an active role in making it happen.” .
Leader of North Somerset Council, Cllr Nigel Ashton, added: “I am delighted that Vixcroft is playing a key role in improving the leisure and retail offer in Weston town centre. The food hall improvements are just the start of their investment plans which we are pleased to be working on closely with them. Their proposals complement the wider investment programme across the town centre which will see widespread improvements to Weston as a place to live, learn and spend leisure time.
The new food hall will be great news for visitors and residents alike. Together with the development under way at Dolphin Square and forthcoming launch of Bistrot Pierre, Vixcroft’s plans will create new jobs and will help bring new vitality into the heart of Weston, especially into the evening and year-round.”
The scheme has been designed by award-winning brand agency Barber Design Consultancy. As part of the rebrand of the centre, its website will also be re-launched in the near future – http://www.sovereign-centre.co.uk.
Commenting on the new design, Sovereign shopping centre manager Nick Cooke said: “The Galley will offer more variety for our customers and will greatly improve our offering as a leisure destination. I am sure our visitors of all ages will enjoy it, from a tinkle on the piano to a lick of an ice-cream with sauce and sprinkles!.”
Barber Design Consultancy creative director, Neil Overall added: “The way we shop today is completely different from twenty years ago. In response, the Vixcroft owned centre is undergoing a full rebrand, bringing it up to date and appealing to visitors young and old. We have focused on beach inspired dining with kiosks individually named, branded and themed, and centred on traditional British cuisine. “
The six new units vary in size from 468sq ft to 81 sq ft kiosk size. The centre is keen to attract both national and local caterers, and can offer flexible leases.
Stuart Kearney of letting agents Fawcett Mead said: “We would be interested to hear from local operators, be they an established or a start up company which could add something to the centre’s food offering. We are already in discussions with some national operators and hope to be able to confirm their presence shortly.”
The Sovereign shopping centre will remain open during the food court refurbishment. Druckers will relocate to a temporary unit and Parsons will remain in situ, so visitors can still grab a drink and a bite to eat.
The Sovereign shopping centre was purchased by Vixcroft in February 2015. Vixcroft which owns and manages the centre is committed to enhancing the restaurant retail offer of the centre and to being part of Weston’s economic revival.
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