The Disney Store is making a significant return to the Trafford Centre just five years after the brand closed numerous shops across the country. In 2021, Disney announced it would 'significantly reduce' its store count to focus on online retail, leading to the closure of its main shops at both the Manchester Arndale and the Trafford Centre later that year.
Since then, Disney has operated pop-ups and themed stores across the UK. The Selfridges at the Trafford Centre hosted a Christmas-themed shop last year, featuring festive windows and exclusive products. A few months earlier, the store also featured an official Disney Park merchandise hub with items previously only sold at theme parks.
Permanent Concession Opening
Following the success of these pop-ups, a permanent Disney Store concession will open inside Selfridges next month. The store will offer official Disney, Pixar, Marvel, and Star Wars products, many of which are typically only available online or in London stores.
Disney stated that the overwhelming response to its festival retail activation last year demonstrated strong demand for a more permanent in-person shopping experience in the North West. In addition to the Manchester location, a second space will open inside Selfridges Birmingham.
Product Range and Features
The new location will feature a curated selection of apparel, accessories, stationery, plush toys, collectibles, and roleplay-inspired collections based on iconic stories and characters. Seasonal launches and selected collectible products will also be available, along with dedicated fitting rooms for customers to try items before purchasing.
Patrick Segar, Global General Manager of The Disney Store and VP of Retail Marketing, said: “We are thrilled to continue expanding Disney Store’s physical presence in the UK and to bring a brand-new Disney shopping destination to Manchester. We know how passionate Disney fans across the North West are, and we are excited to create a place where guests can discover products, toys and stories they love in a truly enchanting retail environment. Disney Store is more than just a place to shop – it is a destination where fans can celebrate their love for Disney and immerse themselves in the wonder of storytelling through curated products, immersive retail environments and memorable experiences.”
The announcement comes amid a wave of new arrivals at the Trafford Centre, including Korean street food spot Bunsik and Swiss chocolatier Lindt. Pizza restaurant Forbici is also set to open later this year. Last week, Trafford Centre bosses thanked shoppers for their patience during major works to install new escalators in the central dome, which are scheduled outside the summer holidays.
