Next is to launch a new beauty hall concept transforming five former Debenhams beauty departments.
The once thriving beauty counters of Debenhams are in need of a desperate rehaul, and Next have grasped the opportunity to develop their beauty products to take their place on the high street.
The department store has struck the deal with retail landlord Hammerson for the beauty sites which will trade as The Beauty Hall from Next.
Further sites are still to be confirmed- while Bullring & Grand Central Birmingham, Silverburn Glasgow, and Highcross Leicester will begin trading after lockdown measures are loosened.
The beauty department at Next features huge brand names including Smashbox, Elemis, Estee Lauder, L’Occitane and more- bringing affordable yet great quality products to the high street.
The fashion retailer said it has agreed a deal with retail landlord Hammerson for the new beauty hall sites, as fashion stores remain closed amid the coronavirus lockdown, reports PA.
Upon the launch date, Next added they plan to hire staff with beauty retail experience and are therefore “likely” to offer positions to former Debenhams staff.
Simon Wolfson, Next’s chief executive, said: "This is an exciting opportunity to work with existing and new beauty brand partners to create a new force in beauty retailing – bringing our online business to life through premium store environments in some of the UK’s most important retail locations.”
David Atkins, Hammerson’s chief executive, said: "This is a really challenging time for all of us, so it’s really encouraging to see strong, innovative brands like Next work with us to plan for the future.
"This is another example of how we are re-purposing department store space and improving the shopping experience for consumers.
"The Beauty Hall from Next is a great concept and it’s a real vote of confidence in our flagship destinations that Next has chosen these locations to launch its new offer.”
