Following an 18-month repositioning programme, Queensberry has opened the doors to the brand new Everyman Cinema at Metquarter in Liverpool, marking the first phase of the scheme’s relaunch.
This opening is emblematic of the repositioning strategy Queensberry has implemented at Metquarter, the company said, as it evolves into a premium retail and leisure destination in the heart of the city.
The newly configured scheme comprises 38 units including three retail anchor units, a restaurant hub and a four screen boutique cinema with 287 seats, as well as a bar and dining area.
The strategy for the centre has focussed on bringing a high-quality cluster of leisure and restaurants to the north-west end of the property to create a dynamic and exciting location during the day, and through to the evening.
Alongside Everyman, Kids Cavern has recently launched a 15,000 sq ft shop to anchor the ground floor of the scheme. This bolsters the high-end offer with a new concept store offering designer children’s wear and teenage clothing from 140 brands such as Lanvin, Chloe, Moncler and Givenchy. In addition, a high end boutique will be revealed on the centre in the next few days.
The new names will sit alongside an existing line up including Jo Malone, MAC Cosmetics, Hugo Boss who has upsized and completely refurbished its store in line with the wider refurbishment works.
Queensberry has also recently agreed terms with premium food hall operator Try Market Halls to take 16,000 sq ft of space. The new food quarter will open in May 2019 as the final stage of the repositioning and will house 10 food kitchens offering a range of global cuisines from a host of local and regional chefs. It will also boast three different bars, including one specifically serving champagne, further enhancing the sense of destination in the scheme.
RPA Perspective Stuart Harris, Commercial Director and Co-founder of Queensberry, said: “This has been a really interesting project for us, as we have been able to mix the best of local and regional independents with national premium brands to create a USP for the scheme. The opening of Everyman Cinema symbolises the first phase of the transition and we have negotiations ongoing with other exciting retail and restaurant brands, having recently secured 70,000 sq ft of new names that will breathe a new life in to the centre. This will give it a new identity that is both representative of Liverpool, whilst showcasing some of the best international and British fashion brands.”
Crispin Lilly, CEO of Everyman Cinemas, said: “Liverpool is such a vibrant city with an incredible cultural legacy, and we’re proud to become a part of that. The Everyman Cinema offer is all about delivering a great night out, with a broad range of quality films and events combined with our discerning bar and social spaces which will complement the Metquarter scheme perfectly.”
Metquarter benefits from a city centre position in the Castle Street Conservation Area, fronting on to Whitechapel, Liverpool’s traditional high street. It also neighbours the Cavern Quarter and is close to Liverpool One.
As part of the proposed repositioning Queensberry has been working in close contact with Liverpool City Council which is investing in the Victoria Street and Whitechapel area including a new 330 space multi storey car park due to open later this year on Victoria Street almost directly opposite the Metquarter.
Queensberry is asset manager and developer of the centre on behalf of its joint owner and partner Bywater Properties. Queensberry was represented by Savills and BGP.
