New, expanded H&M store opens in Athlone Towncentre

A new-look, larger, H&M store is opening its doors at Athlone Towncentre today (Wednesday, November 27).

The international fashion retailer has increased its store size at the shopping centre from 11,887 sq. ft to 15,192 sq. ft by amalgamating two units at both the ground floor and first floor level.

A statement issued on behalf of Athlone Towncentre said H&M had invested approximately €3 million into the store re-fit, and had also signalled its confidence in the retail location by signing a new 10-year lease.

The letting agents are Bannon and Cushman & Wakefield, and Athlone Towncentre said its retail occupancy now stands at 98%.

Shirley Delahunt, Marketing Manager at Athlone Towncentre, said: "With this latest announcement, there’s no doubt that we are the leading shopping centre destination in the Midlands region and wider catchment area.

"That's a big part of its appeal for H&M and other major Irish and international brands including Sports Direct, River Island, Zara, M&S, NEXT, TK Maxx and Eason.

"At virtually full occupancy now and with an eye-catching mix of retail and services , the next number of trading weeks to Christmas promise to be very busy with gift givers and those who want to treat themselves.

"We're anticipating increased footfall – an important boost for the local economy at this time of year."

This latest news from H&M follows a busy period of retailer activity at the centre in past year or so with the arrival of a new anchor tenant (Sports Direct) major new brands including Rituals, an expanded Pamela Scott, new Irish brands Echo Hair and Nails and Koo Koo in addition to Nana’s Tea, which opened last Friday.

In addition, a multi-million euro mechanical and electrical upgrade project completed in 2023, has resulted in electricity consumption being reduced by 50% in the shopping centre and by 35% in the car park compared to energy consumption in 2019, pre the commencement of the upgrade and project works.