British Land and Aviva Investors have signed 37,000 sq ft of space to international retailers ZARA and Goldsmiths at SouthGate, Bath’s premium open-air shopping destination. 

ZARA has agreed to take a 32,000 sq ft store, which will be the brand’s first outlet in the city. Located across two floors, the store will feature an extensive range of products across womenswear, menswear and homeware. The fashion brand joins luxury watch and jewellery retailer Goldsmiths, which has signed a 5,000 sq ft unit.

These lettings build on the strong period of leasing activity in the first half of the year, with 1 million sq ft of retail deals signed across British Land’s portfolio.

Kate Lea, Head of Shopping Centre Leasing at British Land, said: “ZARA and Goldsmiths are brilliant additions to Bath’s thriving retail offering. ZARA’s decision to choose SouthGate for its first store in the city is a testament to the popularity of the destination, and the work we’ve done to make the centre as attractive and engaging for customers as possible.”

Craig Bolton, President of the Watches of Switzerland Group, UK & Europe, said: “We consider a prominent presence in Bath as key to our expansion plans for Goldsmiths, and SouthGate stood out as the ideal destination from which to showcase our luxury brands to the city’s shoppers.”

Both stores are due to open by Autumn 2023 and will join a selection of leading brands and high street retailers including Apple, Lululemon, Tommy Hilfiger and Levi’s.

British Land and Aviva Investors were advised by Cushman & Wakefield.