Firm listens to demand and relocates to Leicester city centre

AMPLIFON, the world’s leading hearing specialist has opened a new store in Leicester’s city centre to better serve the needs of its customers.

The firm has taken the lease of a 2,500 sq ft ground floor unit at 40-50 High Street in a deal secured by commercial property consultant Innes England. 

With over 134 branches across the UK and Ireland, the firm has experienced increased demand for its bespoke hearing solutions and has now moved from its previous, less central location in Abbey Street to the city centre.  

Kevin Brereton, national acquisition and property manager at Amplifon said: “We are incredibly busy servicing an ever increasing number of customers who have a need for our specialised products and services. 

“Historically there has been a stigma surrounding hearing difficulties and some people found it hard to discuss. However over recent years, with the progression in technology this stigma has lessened and I believe this is why we are helping more and more people rediscovering the joy of better hearing.

 “Our move to High Street comes as part of the business’s strategy to be in city centres throughout the UK and Ireland. Figures show that people are now looking for hearing solutions while carrying out their usual shopping duties – meaning we need to be in city centres and in amongst the core retail offering.

“The location of the unit is ideal for us as it’s close to the popular Highcross shopping centre and we are already experiencing a noticeable increase in footfall.”

The property was previously occupied by Coffee Republic, and will be let to Amplifon on a ten year lease.

Jenny Clarke, associate director at Innes England, said: “This letting has met Amplifon’s needs, being a firm which has moved away from being a destination retailer to a high street name. The unit is in a prime location and I wish Kevin and the team great success here. 

“Retail vacancy rates in Leicester are at pre-recession levels, meaning units such as this are in high demand and do not remain vacant for long. There has been a continued demand for city centre premises from firms like Amplifon, wanting to monopolise on Leicester’s strong retail offering.”