Christmas comes early for The Junction as sales soar and major tenants renew

The Junction continues to buck national retail trends as sales figures soar. 

Christmas has come early for The Junction Retail and Leisure Park after the Antrim-based outlet confirmed the renewal of two major tenant leases while posting strong sales growth that defies wider national retail trends.

The Junction has officially re-signed leasing agreements with leading retailers Next and Denby, reinforcing confidence in the scheme as it finishes 2025 with year-to-date turnover up 11 per cent compared to 2024.

The performance places The Junction firmly ahead of the national picture at a time when many retail destinations continue to feel the effects of economic pressures and changing consumer habits.

One of the scheme’s original tenants, Next has committed to a further term at the retail park, where it has traded since The Junction first opened in 2004.

Now entering its 22nd year onsite, the fashion retailer remains one of the park’s anchor tenants.

Operating from a 12,062 sq ft outlet store offering womenswear, menswear and childrenswear at discounted prices, Next is set to upgrade parts of the unit, including the installation of new fitting rooms.

The store employs 40 people locally, underlining the brand’s long-term confidence in the scheme and its loyal shopper base built up over more than two decades.

Also renewing its commitment to The Junction is Denby, which has extended the lease on its 1,793 sq ft outlet store. The premium homeware brand has been part of the scheme since 2009 and currently employs seven people at the Antrim location.

Founded in 1809, Denby is internationally recognised for its handcrafted stoneware, cookware and homeware, with each piece passing through more than 20 pairs of hands during production.

Often described as the “biggest studio pottery in the world”, the brand continues to attract shoppers seeking quality and craftsmanship.

The positive momentum at The Junction extends beyond the latest renewals. Value retailer B&M was recently named the top-performing store across its Northern Ireland and Scotland portfolio, further highlighting the strength of the destination.

The Junction is owned by Lotus Property and is advised by joint leasing agents Savills and Lambert Smith Hamptons.

Commenting on the milestone, Asset Manager at Lotus Property Paul McCann said:

“The Junction is finishing 2025 on a real high as we renew household names, Next and Denby. In what continues to be a challenging time for the retail industry, The Junction has bucked national downturn trends, recording exceptional sales this year. It is a true testament to the centre management team and all the retailers onsite.

“The scheme is enjoying a particularly busy Christmas period between shoppers and event attendees, and we are very much looking forward to seeing it continue to thrive in 2026 and beyond.”

With strong sales performance, long-standing tenant loyalty and continued investment from major brands, The Junction appears well-placed to build on its success into the new year.