FEST i VE edit
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023 In association with
Get cosy FESTIVE INTERIORS
Step into luxury CHRISTMAS PARTYWEAR
Discover somewhere new WINTER GETAWAYS
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The Edit
Welcome
In association with
NOV/DEC 23
04 Trend edit Cosy interior additions with Rowen Homes
06 Festive statements Get ready for a festive party with Hobbs London
07 A touch of sparkle Discover Phase Eight’s latest collection
08 Festive escapes Winter getaway suggestions from Kuoni
09 Luxury footwear Metrocentre has seen a lot of changes over the last couple of years and as we approach our peak season it’s a fantastic opportunity to reflect on some of our achievements. Since Sovereign Centros took over the Asset Management of Metrocentre back in October 2020, the centre has welcomed 51 new retailers and worked alongside 33 existing brands to refurbish / upsize their stores. In the current retail climate this is a fantastic achievement and as you will see on the following pages there are more new names and announcements to follow. An ongoing pipeline of investment has facilitated several major projects from escalator, lift and toilet upgrades to car park resurfacing. The multi-million pound refurbishment of Town Square brought with it new lighting, seating, flooring and the re-introduction of some natural trees and greenery to the malls. You will also notice the changes to our external areas with the installation of over 100 EV charging points and 3,576 rooftop and solar carport panels. Before we gallop ahead into 2024 we are delighted to share with you a selection of highlights from some of our most recent brands. From Rowen Homes, Hobbs and Moda in Pelle in Platinum Mall to the sumptuous Harrods Champagne and Cocktail Bar within H Beauty, plus many more.
Best foot forward with Moda in Pelle
10 Seasonal sips Celebrate at Harrods Champagne and Cocktail Bar
11 Gift guides Something for everyone
12 Perfect scent Christmas with Jo Malone
14 What’s new? New additions to Metrocentre
Merry Christmas from all at Metrocentre Cover Image supplied by Rowen Homes
Gavin Prior, Centre Director
If you wish to discuss any advertising and sponsorship opportunities please contact: Debi Coldwell: debi@allies-group.com / 07910 918366
Allies Group Ltd, Enterprise House, Kingsway, Team Valley Trading Estate, Gateshead, NE11 OSR allies-group.com All contents copyright ©20223 Allies Group Ltd. All rights reserved. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, no responsibility can be accepted for inaccuracies, howsoever caused. No liability can be accepted for illustrations, photographs, artwork or advertising materials while in transmission or with the publisher or their agents. All information is correct at time of going to print, November 2023.
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FESTIVE EDIT NOV/DEC 23
Magical interiors
Trend edit:
cosy core
Home is where the heart is, and Rowen Homes believe that yours should be a cosy sanctuary to come back to at the end of a busy day
Inviting Tones Cosy Core is all about a rich and comforting colour palette, so when you’re looking for a cosy and inviting atmosphere in your home, incorporate soft beiges, gold or white accessories and gentle brown tones that create a warm and welcoming feel. Having a cosy colour palette for your room instantly brings a snuggly winter feel.
Enter their brand new ‘Cosy Core’ trend edit – a warm, comfortable, and utterly timeless style that’s got us hooked as an easy way to transform the feel of your home. The Cosy Core trend is all about creating spaces that surround you in comfort and invite you to unwind - think sumptuous fabrics, soothing colours, and tactile textures.
Touch it, Feel it The Cosy Core trend places a strong emphasis on textures and fabrics. Soft, enticing materials like faux fur, boucle fabric and chunky throws add a textured luxury and cosiness to your space. It’s not just fabric that can add texture and warmth to your space; you can also incorporate beautiful wallpaper or neutral art to add texture to your walls.
Furniture When it comes to furniture, the Cosy Core trend is all about pieces with soft edges and curves. We’re talking about cosy armchairs, plump cushions, and upholstered furniture in those soothing colours previously mentioned. Adding a soft and alluring sofa is the perfect addition to any living space. If curved furniture isn’t for you, we love the best selling comfy Tribeca sofa for the perfect inviting place to curl up and have a cosy movie night.
FESTIVE EDIT NOV/DEC 23
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Magical interiors
Let There Be Light Warm, ambient lighting plays a pivotal role in creating that dreamy, cosy atmosphere. Layering lighting is a great and easy way to bring this warmth into your space, so make sure you have a mix of table lamps, pendant lights, and wall lights to cast a welcoming golden glow. It’s all about creating that warm and inviting atmosphere.
Bringing Cosy Core Home with Rowen Whether you’re looking for small changes to bring the cosiness as the dark nights creep in, or are looking to make bigger changes, the Cosy Core trend is the perfect inspiration for creating interiors that offer solace and warmth. Rosie McDonnell, Rowen’s very own interior designer says: “Think of it as crafting a personal retreat. This is your safe haven, so make it as inviting as you can.”
If you’re looking for any of the pieces mentioned above, head to Rowen Homes’ Flagship store in Metrocentre’s upper Platinum Mall, for more inspiration. Whether it’s the soothing colours, the cosy textures, the plush furniture or the ambient lighting, they’re all about helping you take your home comfort and style to the next level. So, get ready to make your home a place of warmth, elegance, and relaxation, one piece at a time!
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FESTIVE EDIT NOV/DEC 23
In the
spirit
Glitz and glamour
Get ready for a season of celebrations with Hobbs London in elevated styles that shimmer, sparkle and shine. The party starts here... In the world of fashion, some brands stand out for their unwavering commitment to style, quality, and timeless sophistication. Hobbs London is undeniably one of those brands, where every piece in their collection is a testament to the pursuit of festive excellence. Hobbs London doesn’t just follow trends; they set them. From the moment you step into a Hobbs store or browse through their collections, you’re immediately struck by their ability to embrace statement shades. Whether it’s a vibrant pop of Christmas colour to brighten up your work-party attire, or a deep, rich hue that exudes elegance for a sophisticated event, Hobbs London knows how to work with seasonal colour to make a statement that is uniquely yours. Hobbs is more than just a fashion brand; it’s a celebration of individuality, style, and timeless sophistication. When you wear Hobbs, you’re not just dressing for the moment; you’re making a statement about who you are and what you value. Find Hobbs in upper Platinum Mall.
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Dazzling designs
Shine bright this festive season with
phase eight
Phase Eight’s latest collection has finally arrived, and it’s a treasure trove of style inspiration for every kind of festive occasion. In this enchanting collection, sophistication and glamour take centre stage, ensuring you’re the belle of the ball at any event. Picture yourself in elegantly designed outfits that feature pale Champagne hues and rich shades of chocolate, copper, and bronze. These outfits are tailor-made for both the warm, flattering glow of candle lit dinners at exclusive soirées, or stealing the spotlight on the dancefloor at glamorous Christmas parties. But that’s not all; Phase Eight’s collection offers a range of options for adding a touch of sparkle. You can opt for a head-to-toe sequined ensemble if you’re ready to dazzle, or choose more subtle pieces that add just the right amount of glamour to your look. Whichever style you choose, you’re guaranteed to be dressed to impress. For all your festive fashion favourites, head to Phase Eight in upper Platinum Mall.
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FESTIVE EDIT NOV/DEC 23
Festive escapes
Brighten up the
bleak winter Hunt the Northern Lights in Iceland
A winter getaway doesn’t have to be all about sun-seeking. Pack your fur-lined boots and cosy knits and head for an Icelandic adventure. On Kuoni’s four-night Aurora Adventure, you’ll travel to Reykjavik, where you’ll go on the hunt for the spectacular Northern Lights and travel by ‘super jeep’ to the famous Golden Circle, where you’ll see geysers, waterfalls, and hot springs. You’ll also spend a night under dark skies in a remote lodge, where you can soak under the stars in an open-air hot tub.
What better way to blow the winter cobwebs away than with a luxury getaway? At Kuoni Metrocentre, you’ll find a warm and dedicated team of professionals, each with a unique passion for different corners of the globe. Take a trip into their dreamy store, where you’ll be greeted with a soothing cup of coffee, or a cheeky glass of fizz, before talking over the holiday of your dreams. For those unsure of their next destination, Kuoni provides inspiration to ensure your every Christmas wish is granted. From diving into tropical waters in Belize to relaxing in a star-lit hot tub in Iceland, a variety of incredible adventures begin at Kuoni Metrocentre.
Follow the sun to Mauritius
How does a five-star resort with finesse, attentive service, and sublime fine dining sound? Well, you can have all this and more at the One&Only Le Saint Géran. As Mauritius’s oldest luxury hotel, this was once a hotspot for Hollywood stars and now attracts a mix of families and couples looking for a taste of celebrity treatment. Spend your days lounging on the pristine private beach or unwind with a massage in the world-class spa and, at nightfall, choose from six incredible dining venues. If you’re celebrating a big occasion, Kuoni can wave their wand with magic touches like spa reservations, helicopter transfers or a special surprise dinner!
Take off to tropical shores in Latin America
November to April is a great time to visit Belize, where you’ll find Mayan ruins entangled in jungle, a wealth of wildlife and postcardworthy beaches. But this country’s beauty isn’t just surface deep; Belize’s extraordinary barrier reef – the second-largest coral reef in the world – is a magnet for divers and snorkelers alike. Experienced divers can take on the legendary Blue Hole, a perfectly circular cave plunging vertically in the seabed, teeming with sharks, rays and barracudas. You can explore Belize on a carefully crafted small group tour or the experts can design your own tailor-made trip; we love their Signature Belize: Reef, Rainforest and Ruins suggested itinerary. FESTIVE EDIT NOV/DEC 23
If you’d like to find out more about the featured trips or would like to start planning your perfect winter escape, talk to the experts at Kuoni Metrocentre, situated in upper Platinum Mall.
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Best foot forward
Step into
christmas Known for its stylish and contemporary shoe designs, Moda in Pelle has established a reputation for creating high-quality footwear that combines fashion-forward styles with comfort and craftsmanship. The Moda in Pelle autumn/winter campaign unveils luxury footwear, seeking to redefine the boundaries of luxury fashion by showcasing exquisite footwear against a stunning backdrop. Crepe, cowboy, and khaki trend stories run through the collection combining classic details with modern elements, designed with passion and crafted without compromise.
Partywear
Your Christmas party just got seriously upgraded with the Moda in Pelle dancefloor delights. Taking you seamlessly from sunset to sunrise, this range features striking stilettos and dazzling diamante details. This collection is guaranteed to carry you through the party season in comfort and style.
Gifting
Unwrap pure luxury with the Moda in Pelle gift collection. With something perfect for every stocking - this sensational selection is wishlist worthy and will have your recipient in absolute awe. Find Moda in Pelle in upper Platinum Mall.
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FESTIVE EDIT NOV/DEC 23
Beautiful bubbles
Eat, drink and be
merry
FESTIVE EDIT NOV/DEC 23
Take five to indulge at the Harrods Champagne and Cocktail Bar, where you can sit, sip and celebrate with your nearest and dearest. Swoon over their menu of stunning bites and divine drinks, including patisserie from the talented Harrods chefs, signature cocktails, a variety of teas and coffees and, naturally, an abundance of Champagne! Find the Harrods Champagne and Cocktail Bar in H Beauty, Lower Town Square.
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Luxury unwrapped
Make every moment
matter
Sustainable Lip Care £13.90
This Christmas, give thanks to the people who matter most with a luxury gift from Rituals in lower Platinum Mall... THE RITUAL OF ADVENT
Microbiome Friendly Handcare £12.90
STOCKING FILLERS
Luxurious Shower Foams £9.90
LUXURY GIFTS UNDER £30 Give the gift of warmth this Christmas with Classic Candles £26.90
Luxurious Pre-wrapped Gifts for All £27.90
Golden Teacup and Jing Sleep Tea Gifting Idea £17.80
Classic Calendar £87.90 product value £150.50
GIFTS FOR HER
Ultimate Hand Care Collection Minis £16.40
Pre-wrapped Ayurveda Gift Set £54.90 comes with free gift!
Deluxe Calendar £120.90 product value £199.00 Sakura Gift Set £43.90
GIFTS FOR HIM The Ultimate Men’s Gift Box £98.90 comes with free gift!
Premium Calendar £165 product value £295.50
Men’s Pre-wrapped Gift Set £54.90
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Men’s Shave Gel and Aftershave Gifting Idea £37.80 FESTIVE EDIT NOV/DEC 23
Seasonal scents
Jo Malone’s
winter wonders
Tempting Treats The finer things in life - discover special surprises to fill their stockings with surprise and delight.
Christmas Cracker £36
From scented showstoppers, to holiday heroes and festive favourites, Jo Malone London in lower Red Mall has something for everyone on Santa’s nice list! This limited-edition Christmas collection is complete with an extra dusting of festive magic... Festive Favourites
Add a festive finishing touch to any dining table with a scentfilled Jo Malone London cracker in a gingerbread-inspired design. Reveal a 9ml cologne in the fresh woody scent of Wood Sage and Sea Salt, a luscious 30ml English Pear and Freesia Body and Hand Wash and a 15ml hand cream scented with zesty Lime Basil and Mandarin.
Christmas Ornament £32
A delicious addition to your tree: a gingerbread house-inspired ornament filled with a duo of miniature scents. A 9ml English Pear and Freesia Cologne and a 15ml Wood Sage and Sea Salt Hand Cream await inside.
Embark on a sensory journey through the captivating world of aromatic treasures that have the remarkable power to transport us to Christmases gone by, and to new traditions that are as memorable as they are fragrant.
Orange Bitters Available in 30ml, £58, and 100ml Cologne, £124, as well as the Home Candle, £59
These seasonal scents are guaranteed to bring holly jolly moods to all those who unwrap them. Savour Orange Bitters, a scent inspired by a delectable winter cocktail, containing juicy sweet orange, a splash of bitter orange, and a base of rich sandalwood.
Scented Showstoppers Take your festivities to new heights and ensure that your festive season is nothing short of magical. Each fragrance is an ode to the joy, warmth, and togetherness that define Christmastime.
House Of Jo Malone London Collection £166
A lavish selection of five fragrances to enchant homes and enhance everyday routines wrapped in a gingerbread-inspired gift box. Establish the perfect mood with a duo of Travel Candles. Cleanse, moisturise and uplift with a body and hand wash and body and hand lotion pairing. Spritz skin with the popular fresh woody scent of Wood Sage and Sea Salt.
Pine & Eucalyptus Available in
the Home Candle, £58 and Diffuser, £78 Christmas has a way of enchanting our senses, with familiar scents that transport us to cherished moments. There’s something truly magical about the scents that waft through the air during the festive season, and one fragrance, in particular, has a way of encapsulating the essence of Christmas morning. It bursts with the festivity of aromatic pine and the enlivening essence of eucalyptus. Together, these natural scents create a symphony that evokes the spirit of the season.
Gingerbread Land Home Candle Trio £176
Create a festive atmosphere with three candles in candy cane designs. Make your days merry with rich, smoky Roasted Chestnut, warm up with the succulent scent of Frosted Cherry and Clove or set a sensual mood with Pomegranate Noir.
Green Almond & Redcurrant Available in 50ml Cologne, £86
Deck the halls with bows of gorgeous fragrance, as Green Almond and Redcurrant offers a combination that teases the senses, offering a symphony of scents that are both intriguing and delightful. This masterpiece is a colourful combination, a vibrant marriage of redcurrants, citrus, and the grounding embrace of green almond, cedarwood, and tonka. It’s a fragrant blend that is not just merry and bright; it’s a celebration of contrasts that enchant your senses. FESTIVE EDIT NOV/DEC 23
Mr Malone Luxury Collection £295
Brighten his day (and his Christmas) with a selection of scents designed especially for the special man in your life. Includes 9ml colognes and Cologne Intense, bath and body miniatures to upgrade grooming rituals, and a pair of miniature candles to enhance the festive atmosphere.
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Seasonal scents
Gingerbread Land Christmas Collection 2023 Ginger and spice, and all gifts nice. Follow us into a festive forest of candy cane stripes, cologne-decked trees and presents piled high (with a frosted cherry on top). Discover a limited-edition collection with an extra sprinkle of enchantment.
Christmas Advent Calendar £350
Ginger Biscuit Cologne £124 and Ginger Biscuit Home Candle £59
The treasured Jo Malone London Advent Calendar returns with a gingerbread-inspired design to make the festive season even sweeter. Filled with 25 scented surprises including Miniature Colognes, Travel Candles, Bath and Body Luxuries and a 30ml Cologne in one of the brand’s most popular scents. Complete with Seasonal Holiday Hero Scents including Orange Bitters and White Moss and Snowdrop. Once empty, the box can be reused as a jewellery case, desk tidy or crafting kit - who doesn’t love a sustainable gift?
A deliciously irresistible scent spiced with ginger, nutmeg and cinnamon, melting into caramel with roasted hazelnuts (our mouths are watering)! Warmed by tonka bean and vanilla. This truly is a festive favourite, and is a perfect stocking filler for your loved ones. Create your own gingerbread house with the candle or savour the spicy, sensual scent in a cologne. Both beautifully housed in biscuit-coloured glass finished with monochromatic striped bows.
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FESTIVE EDIT NOV/DEC 23
Centre update
What’s
new?
The last 12 months have been super busy at Metrocentre, with 18 new brands opening their doors and 13 existing brands investing in their stores by upsizing or refurbishing their units… FASHION & BEAUTY
Zara
Hobbs
Fashion enthusiasts have been eagerly awaiting the grand opening
Hobbs, in upper Platinum Mall, is here to infuse your wardrobe with a touch of sophistication, seamlessly transitioning you from the workplace to a weekend brunch with their high-quality, fashionable designs.
of the year, marked by the expansion of the renowned international fashion brand, Zara. Their stunning new flagship store in the Red Mall, nearly three times the size of their previous one and the only
Moda in Pelle
one of its kind in the region, is a must-visit destination for those with a keen eye for fashion.
Moda in Pelle offers a range of Italian footwear and accessories, with a strong commitment to blending British elegance with exquisite Italian craftsmanship and premium leather materials. Find Moda in Pelle in upper Platinum Mall.
Vanilla Vanilla has recently joined the Red Mall, marking the opening of their first store in the region. Vanilla proudly showcases both their Blue Vanilla and Pink Vanilla collections, designed to cater to women of all generations, offering contemporary fashion trends and the latest must-have pieces.
Apricot Centred on whimsical patterns, simple fashion, and impeccable craftsmanship, this British brand draws inspiration from urban living, travel, and the natural world. Apricot, in upper Platinum Mall boasts a selection of women’s clothing and accessories, with effortless styles that suit any occasion.
Flannels
Sports Direct
Flannels has introduced a touch of luxury to the lower Red Mall, establishing its presence on the ground floor of the former
Sports Direct has made a triumphant return to the centre, with its location now situated above Flannels in the upper Red Mall. This is the ultimate destination for all your sporting needs, offering a wide selection of leading brands. Explore a variety of trainers for men, women, and children, along with sports fashion and accessories.
Debenhams space. Carrying an extensive selection of top-tier luxury fashion, beauty and homewear brands, alongside a dynamic range of emerging labels, Flannels is a retailer committed to inclusivity, reinvigorating the in-store shopping experience while making luxury accessible to all.
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Centre update
HOMEWARE
Skopes
Rowen Homes
In the world of men’s fashion, Skopes made its debut on the ground floor of Platinum Mall in June, with more than 75 years of tradition and expertise through their assortment of contemporary-style suits, outerwear, accessories, and shirts.
Leaving its enchanting mark on interior design, Rowen Homes is here to help you craft your ideal living space. Through their exquisite, handpicked assortments of affordable luxury home furnishings, their primary objective is to make opulent interior design accessible to all. You won’t want to overlook their first ever showroom, located in the upper Platinum Mall.
LEISURE & DINING
Everlast Gyms Everlast Gyms have launched the UK’s largest hybrid gym, situated above Sports Direct in upper Red Mall. This colossal 37,000 sq ft establishment features unparalleled, cutting-edge design, innovative group training concepts, and a comprehensive range of amenities, including a full-size boxing ring, saunas, ice baths, and much more. Prepare for a fitness journey unlike any other!
Treetop Golf Intrepid explorers are welcome to explore two exciting indoor 18hole immersive miniature golf courses at Treetop Golf within the Qube. Embark on a journey through ancient temples, mysterious carvings, and stone serpents on the Ancient Explorer course, or navigate around winding vines, vibrant inhabitants, and remarkable wildlife on the Tropical Trail. And when it’s time to recharge, The Treetop Market offers a selection of beverages and refreshments from various local suppliers.
VARIETY
Flying Tiger Popular Danish variety retailer has returned to the North East, opening a brand new store on the ground floor of the Green Mall. Stocking everything from home accessories and party decorations to stationery and slippers. With new products arriving monthly there is always something amazing to discover.
Coming soon... Work is currently underway to transform part of the former House of Fraser department store into an NHS Community Diagnostic Centre. The CDC will allow patients to access planned diagnostic care nearer to home without the need to attend acute hospital sites. These services would be separate to urgent diagnostic scan facilities, which means shorter waiting times and a reduced risk of cancellation which can happen when more urgent cases take priority. The CDC is expected to open next summer. 2024 is set to be another big year for the centre with more big brands choosing Metrocentre for their North East debut. Look out for exciting announcements coming soon!
Grounded Kitchen Korean delights have just landed at Metrocentre, providing shoppers with a mouth-watering range of delicious, nutritious dishes, bursting with bold, clean flavours. From their legendary Bimbap bowls to fresh Quenchers, Ssambap wraps to Bao buns, Grounded Kitchen in the Qube is full of feel good food.
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