Emily Zemler
Updated on: October 10, 2024 9:41 pm GMT
Beauty enthusiasts in the North East of England have something to celebrate, as global beauty retailer Sephora officially opened its first-ever store in the region at Eldon Square, Newcastle. The grand opening on September 13 attracted hundreds of shoppers eager to explore the new location.
Crowd Gathered for Grand Opening
Long before the doors opened, the excitement was palpable as makeup lovers began queuing as early as 3 PM. Over 500 attendees received exclusive goody bags as part of the festivities. The grand opening featured a ceremonial ribbon cutting conducted by Sylvie Moreau, President of Sephora Europe, marking a significant milestone for the brand’s expansion in the UK.
Live Entertainment and Special Guests
The event was made even more festive with live entertainment, including performances by drag queen Choriza May and special appearances from local personalities. The celebratory atmosphere was further enhanced by complimentary refreshments from popular local bakery Greggs, served to those waiting in line.
Olivia Telfer, Marketing Manager of Eldon Square, expressed her enthusiasm about the new store’s arrival, stating, “Seeing Sephora open its doors at Eldon Square has been met with great enthusiasm from shoppers.” She emphasized that Sephora’s diverse range of products and experiential offerings enriches the shopping landscape of the North East.
Sephora’s North East Expansion Strategy
This opening signifies Sephora’s ongoing commitment to expanding its presence across the UK. The beauty retailer, known for its curated selection of skincare, makeup, and fragrance products—including renowned brands like Gucci Beauty and Charlotte Tilbury—previously established locations in York and Manchester before making its entrance in Newcastle.
Insights from Sephora Executives
Sarah Boyd, Managing Director of Sephora UK, expressed her excitement regarding the North East’s unique beauty market. “We are thrilled to bring Sephora to the dynamic city of Newcastle, with its unique character and unparalleled passion for beauty,” she noted. Boyd believes that the Eldon Square location is ideal due to its central position, proximity to like-minded brands, and the exceptional profile of shoppers expected to frequent the store.
VIP Launch Event
Before the public opening, Sephora hosted an exclusive VIP launch event at the ABOVE Rooftop in The Vermont Hotel, showcasing its dedication to building community ties in Newcastle. The upscale gathering featured industry influencers, beauty enthusiasts, and local figures, all coming together for a night filled with beauty treatments, entertainment, and networking opportunities.
Community Impact and Future Plans
The opening of Sephora in Eldon Square is expected to have a positive impact on the local economy, not only by attracting shoppers but also by creating employment opportunities in the area. As the brand continues its UK expansion, the enthusiasm surrounding this new store reflects a growing consumer interest in beauty products and experiences.
As Sephora shifts focus to burgeoning markets like the North East, plans for future openings may also be on the horizon, enhancing its footprint and offering greater accessibility to its products for beauty lovers across the UK.
A New Shopping Destination
Eldon Square continues to evolve as a prime shopping destination, now hosting a diverse array of notable brands, including John Lewis and Fenwick, in addition to other beauty outlets like KIKO Milano and the recently opened Miniso and Søstrene Grene. Sephora’s arrival cements its status within this vibrant retail environment, promising an exciting experience for shoppers looking to explore the latest trends in beauty.
Looking Forward
With Sephora’s successful launch in Newcastle, the company aims to cultivate a loyal customer base in the North East, providing access to a vast selection of high-quality beauty products and services. As residents and visitors flock to the new location, Sephora is poised to become a staple in the local shopping scene.
Check out Sephora’s website to learn more about what they offer and any updates they have!
