Preston Matalan in Bamber Bridge - the oldest in the UK - to reopen this weekend following major revamp

Matalan has today announced the opening of its newly refurbished store in Bamber Bridge, Preston.

The transformation forms part of Matalan's £25m investment programme for stores across the UK, demonstrating its ongoing commitment to enhancing the in-store shopping experience for customers.

The Holme Road store holds a special place in the retailer’s history; having been it’s very first bricks-and-mortar location when it opened in May 1985.

It is also home to Matalan's longest serving colleague, Janice Robinson, who has been with the store since day one and has become something of a social media sensation, regularly appearing on the brand’s TikTok and Instagram channels.

To celebrate the reopening, Matalan will host a launch event on Saturday April 18 between 10am – 2pm, during which Janice, who is 82, will a have the honour of cutting the ribbon.

Customers visiting the newly refreshed Preston store will discover a completely reimagined layout, designed to showcase an expanded fashion range in a clearer and more engaging way. Shoppers can expect even greater choice across trend-led styles, everyday essentials, and seasonal must-haves.

Visitors to the store will also benefit from a range of new features, including:

• Newly refurbished fitting rooms with improved lighting and more spacious changing areas

• A redesigned till area, offering a smoother and more efficient checkout experience

• Updated mannequins to better showcase the enhanced range and inspire outfit ideas

Local shoppers are invited to attend this Saturday’s opening and be among the first to explore the refreshed space, with the opportunity to receive a golden envelope with exclusive discounts for early visitors.

Additional offers and hidden vouchers will be available throughout the reopening week, ensuring customers who are unable to attend on launch day can still enjoy the celebrations.

Claire Wilkinson, Preston Store Manager commented; “We’re delighted with the transformation of our iconic Preston store and are excited to welcome customers back this Saturday. The refurbishment has been carefully designed to create a more enjoyable and seamless shopping experience, with a clearer layout that helps customers find what they’re looking for while also discovering something new.

“We look forward to celebrating with shoppers at our official launch event and welcome their feedback.”

Janice Robinson, Matalan’s longest-serving employee said: “I’ve worked in the Preston store since it first opened – it feels like my second home. I’m so excited about all the brilliant changes that have been made, and I think our customers are going to be really impressed with the refresh. I love working here alongside my colleagues and chatting with customers – it keeps me young.”

The Preston store offers Click & Collect for online orders placed at www.matalan.co.uk, making it easier than ever to shop at your convenience.

Customers can discover Matalan’s latest spring and summer range instore and online at www.matalan.co.uk.

The Preston refresh is part of Matalan’s continued commitment to enhancing the in-store experience for its customers.

This year will see 40 stores receiving extensive updates and the opening of 12 new stores.