A New Zealand retailer is set to open a store in the heart of York.
Rodd & Gunn is a men’s fashion brand which has branched out across the world since its first shop opened in Auckland in 1987.
Last autumn it announced a plan to open stores across the UK – and one of them will be at 18-20 Stonegate.
That was last occupied by controversial retailer Kingdom of Sweets. Decked out in garish purple, the building was twice repossessed by its owners while the sweetshop was a tenant.
Last August, we reported how the owners of the building applied for planning permission to convert it into a fashion store, while not disclosing the retailer’s identity.
Now the secret’s out, as new plans are in to put Rodd & Gunn signage across the store.
The shop sells everything from casual shorts and T-shirts to jackets and shirts, boots and shoes.
According to the company website, its collections “are designed for the guy who is quietly confident. The man who is secure, discerning, and appreciates quality.
“He’s equally comfortable in a tailored linen blazer as he is in a casual knit sweatshirt.”
Last year, CEO Mike Beagley said the strategy to open further stores across the UK, initiated in late March, “has already yielded success”.
Among the new branches were ones in Edinburgh, Bath, and Winchester. “The early performance of these stores reinforces our confidence in a bright future in the UK market,” he said.
The building on Stonegate is Grade II listed. It was originally built as a pair of houses in 1740.
Then in the 20th century it was partially rebuilt and converted into a shop.
The lease for the three storey shop was advertised recently for rent of £130,000 per year. It has a rateable value of £76,500.
You can read and comment on the planning application here.