Voetasylum is expanding at Gateshead’s Metrocentre

Footasylum is moving to a 12,000 sq ft unit at the Metrocentre in Gateshead, a space 25% larger than the existing store.

It will allow the retailer to stock a wider range of streetwear, sportswear and footwear for men, women and children, giving it a more substantial presence in the Lower Red Mall, where it will sit alongside brands such as Flannels, Zara and River Island to stand.

A spokesperson for Footasylum said: “We are pleased that we are in demand at Metrocentre and are able to expand our footprint with a new unit in one of the best shopping centers in the country.

“We look forward to bringing a great selection of streetwear to the destination and have no doubt we will continue to see success in the downtown area.”

Ben Cox, director at Sovereign Centros of CBRE, asset managers of the Metrocentre, added: “Last year 17 of our tenants increased their store size or invested in existing stores, and this year we have Primark, Clarks, Victoria’s Secret and now Footasylum added to the store.

“Recent leasing activity sheds light on how the Metrocentre remains a highly sought-after location, with major brands choosing to invest here.

“Footasylum is the latest in a long line of well-known brands to commit to a new flagship store in Metrocentre, joining a number of exciting newcomers to Red Mall.”

Footasylum’s expansion comes at a time when other major brands are choosing to invest further in the location.

This includes eyewear retailer Sunglass Hut, which has signed on to open a 2,457 sq ft unit at the destination at Lower Red Mall, after initially operating from a kiosk.

Menswear brand Jack & Jones has also recently moved into a 1,700 sq ft store in the Upper Red Mall, demonstrating a further commitment to the destination.