The North Face to make Northern Ireland debut as Belfast firm begins 'intensive four-week' fit-out
Outdoor clothing giant The North Face is set to make its Northern Ireland debut with its first standalone store.
The internationally-recognised brand will open an outlet at Victoria Square, Belfast, with work already under way to transform a retail unit on the lower ground floor of the shopping centre.
It does not have one in the Republic of Ireland.
Dundonald-based contractor Somerville Fit-Out has been appointed to deliver the project and announced the news on social media: "We're proud to be delivering the fit-out for The North Face's first premium store in Northern Ireland.
"Somerville is helping bring another globally recognised brand to the high street, creating a retail environment that reflects the quality and experience customers expect."
Somerville added, in a statement posted on Friday: "Delivered over an intensive four-week programme, the project will transform the existing retail unit into a new customer-facing environment for one of the world's most recognised outdoor brands.
"With several work streams progressing simultaneously, close coordination and careful programme management will be central to delivering the project within the accelerated four-week timeframe."
The contractor added that carrying out the work requires careful planning to minimise disruption: "Working within one of Belfast's busiest shopping destinations brings its own logistical and operational considerations.
"Every stage of the programme must be carefully sequenced to maintain progress, coordinate specialist trades and minimise disruption to the wider retail environment.
"Our experience delivering complex retail fit-outs in live, high-footfall locations will support the team throughout the fast-track programme – from the initial strip-out and services installation through to the final finishes."
Founded in 1966, The North Face has grown into one of the world's leading outdoor apparel brands, renowned for its jackets, footwear, and performance clothing.
No official opening date has been announced.