'This is just the beginning for us': Popular UK gift and gadget shop opens first Northern Ireland store
Belfast outlet is the retailer’s 58th UK store as it signals plans for further expansion across the region
Popular UK gift and gadget shop Menkind has officially opened its first store in Northern Ireland, with customers welcomed through the doors of its new Belfast outlet today (Wednesday).
The retailer, which has 57 stores across the UK, said the opening at Castle Court Shopping Centre marks a major milestone as it expands its presence into Northern Ireland and brings its range of gadgets, gifts, collectibles and novelty products to a new market.
Menkind describes itself as the UK’s leading destination for gadgets, gifts and collectibles, with its stores offering a range of products designed to appeal to shoppers looking for unusual gifts as well as those buying for themselves.
The new Belfast store features a selection of popular and trending products, including NeeDoh, Squishies, collectible figurines and Pokémon merchandise.
The retailer said hobby-led and nostalgic purchases are becoming increasingly popular, with collectibles, licensed merchandise and novelty gifts proving popular for both gifting and self-purchase.
The Belfast opening forms part of Menkind’s wider strategy to optimise and expand its store network, with the retailer signalling plans to grow its presence across Northern Ireland in the coming years.
Rob Newman, director of retail at Menkind, said the retailer had been keen to establish a presence in Northern Ireland.
“We have been eager to bring the Menkind experience to Northern Ireland for some time,” he explained.
“Belfast is such a vibrant city with a great energy, and we can’t wait to become a part of the local retail landscape.
“This is just the beginning for us, and we are fully committed to expanding our footprint much further across Northern Ireland in the coming years. We invite everyone to come down, see what we have in store, and help us make our debut in Belfast a memorable one.”
To celebrate this Saturday (September 26) — the first Saturday following the grand opening — the first 100 customers through our doors will receive an exclusive 15% discount on their purchase.
Gary Wakeman, managing director at Menkind, said the retailer’s stores offered customers the chance to discover products they might not find elsewhere.
“Our stores give customers the opportunity to discover products they might not come across elsewhere, whether they're buying for a special occasion or treating themselves,” he added.
“We're delighted to be investing in Northern Ireland and giving even more shoppers the chance to experience Menkind in person.”