Next, one of the UK's largest high street fashion chains, is opening one of its biggest stores yet at Bluewater Shopping Centre in Kent. The new megastore, tripling the size of its original store in the retail destination, will open on Thursday, July 30, 2026.
Store Details and Expansion
The new Next store measures an impressive 132,000 sq ft, making it one of the largest in the company's portfolio. It will sell premium men's, women's, and children's clothing, along with a larger homeware section. The store will also feature an in-store Costa Coffee. It is taking over a former House of Fraser unit that has been empty since the store closed at the end of 2024 after more than 20 years of trading.
As part of the expansion, health and beauty brand Bath and Body Works will relocate to a neighbouring 2,000 sq ft store. Next already has an extensive presence in the UK, with 483 stores listed on its website.
Opening Celebrations
On July 30, the first 150 customers entering the store will receive a goody bag, and there will be a live DJ. Over the following weekend, family-friendly entertainment will include face painting for children and visits from Next's mascot, Hamish the Highland Cow.
Quotes from Management
Terry Wetherell, store manager at Next, said: "We’re incredibly excited to be opening the largest store across the Next portfolio at Bluewater. We can’t wait to showcase a broader range of our products and introduce new brands to the centre and our customers."
James Waugh, Centre Director at Bluewater, commented: "There has been huge anticipation around the opening of NEXT’s new store, so we’re delighted to confirm that it will be opening its doors later this month. As our first new anchor store since Bluewater launched in 1999, this expansion is a landmark moment for us. NEXT’s investment reinforces Bluewater’s position as a leading UK retail destination and highlights the continued strength and confidence we’re seeing in bricks-and-mortar retail." He added: "We look forward to welcoming guests across the opening weekend and beyond."
