Another Nike Unite debuts, this time at Dublin's Blanchardstown Centre

By

Nigel TAYLOR

Published
May 19, 2023

Fresh from opening its latest community-focused Nike Unite concept store at Merry Hill mall in England, the action has moved 245 miles west to Ireland for the second opening in a week.

The US sportswear giant has taken its new concept store to Blanchardstown Centre, Dublin’s largest retail and leisure destination.

Signed on a 10-year lease, the store spans 10,000 sq ft, stocking Nike’s sports, fashion and footwear ranges for men, women, teens and kids. 

The first store of its kind in Ireland, Nike Unite puts the community first, aiming to help local people connect with sport. The unit features an in-store community wall, celebrating Dublin athletes and sporting achievement, as well as local landmarks and partnerships. ​Nike Unite will be partnering with Special Olympics Ireland and youth organisation Foróige.

It will also serve to strengthen Blanchardstown’s athleisure offer, situated next door to JD Sports’ flagship store and adjacent to brands such as Lifestyle Sports, Skechers and Schuh.

Sharon Walsh, Leasing Director at Falcon AM, asset managers for Blanchardstown Centre, said of the opening: “A compelling in-store experience is increasingly important to consumers and this new concept speaks directly to that. The community focus and experiential element offers something different – and will act as a real draw.”

The store is the latest in a string of recent openings (including Bershka, Flannels and Zara) at Blanchardstown as momentum continues to build on leasing deals and coincides with April’s footfall being the highest in five years, said Falcon AM.

“The strong flow of deals reflects resilience of the Irish market, as well as the strength of the offer for brands at Blanchardstown centre”, it added. 

“Occupancy remains high and we have seen strong footfall since the beginning of the year -- as customers visit the centre to enjoy our diverse mix of retail and leisure brands.”