The Spindles shopping centre in Oldham has announced five significant retail developments, comprising two new store openings and three major refurbishments of existing businesses.

Cards Direct and North West have recently opened at the centre. Three established retailers—H. Samuel, Daniel Christian Menswear and Lloyds Bank—have all completed substantial refurbishments of their stores.

New confidence in town centre

James Kington, Director of Growth at Oldham Council, said: "It is fantastic to see both new retailers choosing The Spindles as a location for growth and existing businesses reinvesting in their stores. These five investments send a strong message about the confidence retailers have in the future of the centre and the wider town centre."

The retail activity comes alongside the recent opening of a market in Oldham town centre, part of a £450 million town centre investment programme. Council officials say this has driven increased footfall across The Spindles.

What the new retailers say

James Monte, who opened the 93rd Cards Direct store in Oldham, said: "We are delighted to open our new store at The Spindles. The centre offers a strong retail environment and a growing customer base, and we are excited to become part of the local community."

Usama Bin-Zaman of North West added: "With increasing visitor numbers and continued investment in the town centre, this is the perfect time for us to establish a presence and bring our offer to local customers."

Refurbishment investments

H. Samuel's refurbishment is part of a multimillion-pound store investment programme by parent company Signet Jewelers UK and Ireland. Carla Ramsey, store manager at H. Samuel Oldham, said: "We're delighted to welcome Oldham's shoppers to a smart new store."

Neil Old, Managing Director of Signet Jewelers UK and Ireland, said: "This significant investment in our stores underscores our dedication to local high streets and shopping centres across the country. We believe that a vibrant retail sector is a vital part of a thriving community and we hope our refurbished stores will be warmly welcomed by local shoppers."