Nottingham's historic Exchange Arcade is welcoming new retailers on board - one for exercise fans and a tea shop with a difference.
The shopping arcade, which has been at the heart of Nottingham for more than 90 years, has had a lean time recently with the loss of luxury handbag retailer Radley and German outdoor brand Jack Wolfskin, which closed its store just two years after opening.
Designer fashion label Karen Millen closed after going into administration, while fashion retailers Warehouse and Oasis disappeared from the high street after administrators failed to secure a rescue deal.
However, the future is looking more rosy for the city's first shopping centre - part of a major civic building project which included the Council House overlooking Old Market Square - opened by the Prince of Wales in 1929.
Sweaty Betty has relocated to a more prominent spot in the elegant Grade II listed building, from Pelham Street in Hockley.
The shop, which has taken over the unit left behind by Crabtree & Evelyn, specialises in women's sport and exercise gear, underwear and accessories.
Also opening in the arcade in 2022 is a tea franchise, Gong cha, which translates as “tribute tea for the emperor”.
The company, originally founded in Taiwan in 2006, has more than 1,500 branches worldwide and is now expanding around the UK, with shops already in Covent Garden, Liverpool, Manchester, Birmingham, Coventry and Sheffield.
It says: "Whether you are a fan of drinking tea the traditional way or you prefer more creative takes on tea, there is surely a drink for everyone here at Gong cha."
Teas are served with Gong cha's signature milk foam, described as "the perfect balance between sweet and savoury."
Hot and cold versions are available and bubble teas come with a choice of strawberry, mango and lychee pearls.
The shop will be opening in the former premises of Warehouse overlooking Smithy Row.
Dunkin' Donuts opened in the arcade in October and Loake Shoemakers in November.
Frankie Labbate, director of Box Property which secured the deals, said: "Gong cha are another international brand we have bought to Nottingham this year.
"This follows on from the recent lettings by Box Property to Loake, Sweaty Betty and Dunkin' helping the Exchange appeal to a wider audience with a more varied and complete on trend tenant mix."
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