Dundrum Town Centre’s evolution from a conventional shopping hub into a multi-faceted leisure and lifestyle destination progresses in accordance with evolving consumer behaviours fuelled by the rise of e-commerce.
The large corner spot at Pembroke Square fronting Ballinteer Road, which has been unoccupied since British toy store Hamleys exited in 2018, will soon house premium bowling alley operator, Lane7. Slated to commence operations this December, the venue will boast an area size of 14,500sq ft and provide amenities such as 10-pin bowling, augmented darts, floor shuffle, curling, table tennis, pool and exclusive karaoke booths.
The contract with Lane7 was secured by Dundrum Town Centre’s proprietor, Hammerson, as an extension of the brand’s significant opening at Hammerson’s Bullring & Grand Central shopping centre in Birmingham during the last October.
Additional notable developments include the establishment of a new Chinese establishment, Roncheng, which will be situated below Lane7. Spanning across 4,700sq ft and set to start service in the last quarter of the present year, Roncheng promises to infuse Dublin with the five quintessential tastes of the Far East such as sweet, bitter, sour, spicy, and salty, all set within a lively and refined atmosphere.
Australian jewellery brands are also extending their presence, with Lovisa planning to launch a fresh outlet in Dundrum. This caters towards the younger demographic’s predilection towards trendy and economically priced jewellery pieces. This will mark Lovisa’s fourth venture in Dublin, further accelerating the brand’s growth in the UK and Ireland.
Dylan Oaks, a jewellery brand popular amongst digital natives, has announced its plans to set up its maiden store in Dublin at Dundrum Town Centre later this year. The brand has gained a substantial following due to its customised necklaces, bracelets and other items, largely thanks to collaborations with social media influencers.
Speaking on Lane7’s choice to position themselves at Dundrum Town Centre, the director of Hammerson’s Irish asset management wing, Connor Owens stated, “This marks another key stage for Dundrum as we continue to reshape our assets with innovative social ideas, leading to not only a more diverse mix of tenants but also increasing foot traffic and customer interaction.
In relation to Dunnes Stores opening a new outlet for clothing and homeware at Dundrum Town Centre, he added, “Our Irish portfolio saw significant expansion last year. The virtual reality initiative, Zero Latency, launched at Swords Pavilions, thus broadening the centre’s function and appeal. Meanwhile, in Dundrum, we turned over 200,000sq ft to accommodate Ireland’s first-ever Nike Live, a new flagship Penneys, and Dunnes Stores, which subsequently increased foot traffic by 3.3 per cent compared to the previous year.
“Our vision to evolve our portfolio from mere shopping locations into multifunctional ‘destinations’ is finally taking shape with these innovative additions.”
In addition to this, Gavin Hughes, the managing director of Lane7, expresses his excitement for opening their first Irish venue and invites the Dublin crowd promising them an entertaining experience with Lane7.