National retailer Timpson is set to join Manor Walks Shopping and Leisure, opening a new store that will bring a wider range of services to customers in Cramlington.
The family-owned retailer will open at the centre as part of a planned transition with The Cramlington Cobbler, following the retirement of owners Ian and Helen Platt. Timpson will retain the existing team, providing continuity for customers while introducing its wider range of services.
At 340 sq. ft, the new Timpson store will be more than three times the size of the previous 95 sq. ft operation, providing additional space for the same core services, such as quality shoe repairs, key cutting, engraving and watch repairs, as well as a few new services including dry cleaning and photo services, such as passport and other photo ID, photo processing and personalised gifts.
Laura Hopper, Area Manager at Timpson, said:
“We’re really excited to be joining Manor Walks and becoming part of the Cramlington community. The Cramlington Cobbler has built up a fantastic reputation and a very loyal customer base over many years, so it’s important to us that we retain that local connection and continue to look after customers in the way they’re used to.
“We’re delighted that Mark will be staying with us as part of the Timpson team. His experience and the relationships he has built with customers over the years will be an important part of the new store, and customers will continue to see the familiar face they know and trust.
“The new, larger shop will allow us to build on the services that customers already know and trust, while introducing a wider range of Timpson services. We’re really looking forward to opening the doors and welcoming both existing and new customers.”
Lee Farrier, Head of Commercial and Workspace at Advance Northumberland, said:
“Welcoming Timpson to Manor Walks is a positive addition to the centre and supports our wider strategy to strengthen the mix of retail and services available to customers. The arrival of an established national brand in a substantially larger space demonstrates continued confidence in Manor Walks and the opportunities the centre provides for retailers.
“It is also particularly positive that the existing team will be retained as part of the transition, maintaining valuable local experience while bringing an expanded range of services to Cramlington.”
The new Timpson store is expected to open in early autumn in the former Town Gallery unit near Sainsbury’s.