Pokémon, Waitrose, Build-A-Bear, FatFace invest in stores

Several big brands are putting money into physical shops. UK retail keeps showing resilience and new ideas. The moves range from immersive brand experiences and flagship stores to supermarket growth and new high street shops. They share a confidence in bricks-and-mortar retail and in giving customers experiences they remember. The focus is firmly on improving the customer journey.

Pokémon picks London for permanent store

The Pokémon Company plans to open a permanent Pokémon store in London by 2029. It will be its first permanent store outside Asia. That is a big vote of confidence in London as a world-leading shopping city.

The store will sell exclusive products and offer immersive experiences. It is aimed at lifelong fans and newcomers alike. It is part of a wider plan to open permanent shops beyond Pokémon's usual Asian markets.

The move shows how much experiential retail now matters. Brands are building places and communities, not just somewhere to buy things. Pokémon's fans span generations and countries. A permanent store helps it build loyalty and closer emotional ties with customers.

Waitrose opens new Cricklewood supermarket

Waitrose has opened an 18,000 sq ft supermarket in Cricklewood, London. It is its first full-line supermarket opening in eight years. The store shows off its "Home of Food Lovers" idea. It has specialist counters, premium food, an on-site bakery and a big wine range, with a strong focus on organic, Fairtrade and regeneratively farmed food.

It is one part of a £1 billion investment plan. This covers new supermarkets, convenience stores, neighbourhood shops, store refits and more growth online and in wholesale.

Many retailers are reviewing their stores right now. Waitrose's growth shows confidence that premium shops built around service still help win and keep customers.

Build-A-Bear teams up with Hard Rock Cafe

Build-A-Bear Workshop is working with Hard Rock Cafe on a new interactive shop at the well-known Piccadilly Circus site in London. It opens on 26 October. Visitors can make their own teddy bear while enjoying the Hard Rock Cafe. There will also be exclusive co-branded products, including mini Hard Rock clothes for bears and limited-edition pin sets.

Both brands are known for memorable experiences. The tie-up shows how partnerships can bring in visitors, keep customers engaged and give people a reason to visit in person. Shoppers want experiences as well as products. Deals like this show the growing part entertainment, personal touches and storytelling play in shops.

FatFace opens first Shaftesbury store

FatFace has opened a 1,959 sq ft store in Shaftesbury, Dorset. It is the brand's first shop in the historic town. It will stock the latest collections and core ranges. The store has created six local jobs. It is part of FatFace's ongoing commitment to shops since Next bought it in 2023.

For many fashion retailers, opening in attractive market towns and regional spots is still a key part of growth. FatFace's new store shows that well-placed shops can still raise a brand's profile and build stronger customer relationships.

What RHR thinks

We believe this trend will keep driving demand for high-quality retail staff. As shops become places people visit for the experience, retailers will need more leaders, managers and shop floor teams who can bring brands to life. They will need people who give excellent service and create memorable moments with customers. That is what sets shops apart from shopping online. The businesses that combine great locations, strong experiences and excellent people are the ones most likely to do well in the years ahead.

What this means for hiring. Waitrose's £1 billion plan covers new supermarkets, convenience and neighbourhood stores, online and wholesale, so it could affect store managers, shop floor staff and ecommerce roles. FatFace's Shaftesbury store has created six local jobs, while the Pokémon store is not due until 2029.