Sunderland’s Bridges Shopping Centre secures 10 new stores in first year of M Core acquisition

The Bridges Shopping Centre in Sunderland has secured ten new lettings, including several major relocations, in the first year since its acquisition by M Core in summer 2024, strengthening its position as one of the leading retail destinations in the North East.

A flagship component of the centre’s leasing strategy is the relocation of TK Maxx, which has moved from outside the scheme into a large new unit next to Primark in early 2026. Bringing two of the UK’s most popular retailers together at the heart of the mall reinforces the Bridges’ role as Sunderland’s premier retail hub.

The TK Maxx opening drew strong opening‑day footfall, with shoppers queuing well ahead of the 10am launch and exploring a modern, refreshed interior designed to elevate the customer experience.

Recently ranked among the Top 5 Shopping Centres in the North East in the Trevor Wood 2026 Shopping Guide, the centre has seen a significant rise in occupancy, driven by high‑profile brand debuts and strategic anchor activity.

Leasing momentum continues with a wave of national and international arrivals. Two regional firsts were secured: Auntie Anne’s, the world’s largest hand‑rolled soft pretzel brand, opened its first North East site in September 2025, while Pan-Asian noodle chain Chopstix launched in December 2025, expanding the centre’s food and beverage offer. Subway also made its debut in November 2025.

International jewellery retailer Lovisa opened to strong trading in June 2025, while fast‑growing fragrance brand Ya Dubai launched its kiosk earlier in April. June 2025 also marked the high‑profile return of Tesco Express to Sunderland city centre, its first presence since 2022.

Existing tenants have continued to demonstrate confidence in the scheme. Greggs relocated and expanded into a larger café‑format unit in February 2025. Additional arrivals include Deichmann (August 2024) and independent retailer Candy Galore (September 2025).

Iceland has also invested in its long‑term presence at the Bridges with a full refurbishment completed in 2025, delivering a new store front, extended product lines and the introduction of self‑serve tills, enhancing convenience and improving the overall customer experience.

Dan Davies, Associate Director at Sheet Anchor Evolve, part of M Core, added:
“When we completed the acquisition of the Bridges, we were confident in its potential and the results speak for themselves. The high level of leasing activity over the past year demonstrates both the strength of the centre and the growing appeal of Sunderland as a retail destination. We’re committed to long‑term investment, creating a thriving environment for retailers and an enhanced experience for shoppers. This is only the beginning of what we aim to achieve here.”

Karen Eve, Centre Director at the Bridges, said:

“The pace and calibre of these new lettings reinforce our commitment to delivering a strong, diverse retail mix. Securing regional debuts like Auntie Anne’s and Chopstix, alongside the major consolidation of TK Maxx into the heart of the centre, shows that leading national brands have huge confidence in Sunderland. We’re excited to announce further signings as we move into 2026.”

The Bridges has now introduced extended trading hours centre‑wide, operating:

Monday–Saturday: 9am–6pm
Sunday: 10am–4pm

This follows a successful year‑long trial during which multiple retailers reported notable increases in late‑day footfall and incremental sales, demonstrating clear customer demand for later trading and enabling the centre to deliver a consistently improved shopping experience.

Dominating the city’s retail landscape, the Bridges comprises almost 100 units across 595,000 sq ft and is anchored by Primark, Next and TK Maxx. The centre was acquired by M Core from AEW in 2024.