RETAIL giant Marks and Spencer has opened its new Port Glasgow store this month, thanks to the expertise of specialist retail architecture firm, LK2.
The 40,000 sq ft store – which spans two storeys – was managed by LK2’s M&S account manager and team lead, Mark Howarth, and project architect, Tom Atkinson, who both previously worked with the retailer on some of its major flagship stores overseeing extensions, interior refits and modernisation works.
As part of the scheme, LK2’s team worked to oversee the fit-out, construction and on-site works. The new store features the retailers full-line offering with: an extensive range of departments including womenswear, menswear, childrenswear, lingerie beauty and homeware. The store also features a large foodhall and café.
Senior chartered architectural technologist at LK2, Mark said: “This new, full line M&S store will be a great asset to the local community in Port Glasgow, and is the perfect fit for the retail park. We have really noticed a rise in these types of stores and we were delighted to work with M&S to deliver a store which offers shoppers a great experience all under one roof.
“We are really passionate about retail, and our team understands what brands like M&S need from its stores both functionally and aesthetically. This project was a great experience and we thoroughly enjoyed being on site watching the store come to life.”
The Port Glasgow store marks a first for LK2, which has been appointed to the M&S framework of approved architects earlier in 2017.
LK2’s managing director Dale Lui has recently been shortlisted for the title of ‘#GoDo Entrepreneur of the Year’ at the 2017 NatWest Great British Entrepreneur Awards – highlighting the firm’s unique approach to retail, sport and leisure. Dale beat off tough competition to make the regional shortlist, with over 1000 businesses entering the awards nationally across a wide range of categories.
Mark added: “I am delighted to have completed LK2’s first scheme. I now hope to develop this into a steady stream of work with the retailer and our current list of pipeline schemes puts us in the perfect position to do this. We take great pride in representing well-known and loved brands and are pleased to see the positive impact the store is already having on the local community.”
LK2 is a unique company of chartered architects and sports and leisure business advisors. It specialises in using sport and leisure as a vehicle to blend together a range of sectors including mixed use developments, residential, retail and urban regeneration schemes.
Find out more at https:/// or join the conversation at @lk2_consultants
