FASHION retailer Black White Denim has opened a store in Water Street, Wilmslow.
The retailer, with the support of six-figure funding from HSBC UK, completed the deal for the new property, as its rented tenancy on Alderley Road drew to a close.
The first floor of the new premises will focus on online orders from the UK and overseas.
Jo Davies, the owner of Black White Denim, said: “Our previous tenancy was coming to an end this autumn, so once the opportunity came to acquire this new unit and own the property we were keen to act quickly.
Business owner Jo Davies
“HSBC UK understood our ambitions clearly and supported us at every step throughout the acquisition process.
“Owning the property will generate significant rent savings for the business and eventually boost our cashflow.
“Moving to Water Lane signals an exciting new chapter for the business, and follows an incredibly turbulent time for all retailers across the UK.
“While online sales were up by as much as 50 per cent on previous years, we still felt confident people would also return to the high street once it was safe to do so.
“We’re incredibly grateful to our customers who have supported us throughout lockdown, and look forward to seeing faces old and new.
“The move to Water Lane, one of the busiest shopping destinations in Wilmslow, is expected to generate a 20 per cent increase in turnover over the next 12 months.
“A more minimal store layout will help maintain social distancing measures, while the whole first floor has been allocated to online orders from across the UK and overseas, which have increased substantially during lockdown.”
Sam Roden, area director for HSBC UK, Greater Manchester and Lancashire Business Banking, said: “Covid-19 has obviously caused a lot of disruption for retailers, but Black White Denim were quick to react and adapt to changing conditions.
“Once it became apparent that the business was interested in acquiring a new property, we were pleased to provide the funding. Black White Denim is an excellent example of an independent retailer backing up ambitious plans with high street investment.”
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