IRISH homeware brand Murmur is planning to open its first-ever standalone store as part of longer-term ambitions to roll out more stores across the UK and Ireland.
Its 1,108 sq ft store will open at the Boulevard outlet near Banbridge later this month, creating six jobs.
Part of the Bedeck family, Murmur will sell lines across bedding, soft furnishings, gifting and home fragrance.
Murmur joint managing directors Andrew and Gary Irwin said: “Luxury bedding and homeware is a category that is going from strength to strength as consumer demand for quality items for themselves and their homes continues to increase. We've huge plans for the brand, and we look forward to starting this journey at the Boulevard.”
The announcement comes in the wake of global fashion brand New Look choosing the Boulevard for its first-ever outlet store, which opened in February, and kate spade new york opening its first store in Northern Ireland there last month.
Susanne Morris, director at Johnstone Property Consultants, which with KLM Real Estate advised Boulevard owners Lotus Property on the deal, said: “The Northern Irish retail market is booming at the minute, and feedback from brands is that it is a great location to test-bed new models or venture into a new marketplace and raise their profile among a new consumer.
“The Boulevard in particular has gained attention given its prime location directly between capital cities, Belfast and Dublin. It is perfectly placed to attract visitors from both geographies, with Belfast shoppers enjoying an out-of-town offering and Dublin shoppers availing of a favourable exchange rate.”
Chris Nelmes, retail director at the Boulevard, said: “It’s fantastic to welcome Murmur. Home to sister brand Bedeck for 15 years, we have a growing homeware category at the scheme and a luxury offering such as Murmur’s will be a perfect fit.
“We've had a great 2022. Three new tenants have been welcomed to the scheme. All new signings have been firsts for the brands, whether that’s their first store ever, their first outlet store or their first venture in Northern Ireland.”
