Jarrold to open a branch in the Forum

One of Norfolk's most loved and historic family stores is to open a branch in the Forum, in Norwich, concentrating on local products.

Jarrold and the Forum Trust announced that the new shop will launch at the start of November.

The Forum Shop by Jarrold will sit alongside the new Tourist Information Centre in the refurbished and extended south wing of the building.

Peter Mitchell, managing director of Jarrold Retail, explained that the shop will be a showcase for products that Norfolk "can be proud of", whether they are made in the region or capture the essence of local appeal.

"The Forum Shop will appeal to regular shoppers in Norwich looking for a special gift, as well as to our tourist visitors. The Forum is an iconic building in Norwich and we are delighted to have this opportunity to work with The Forum team to add a new dimension to what's on offer to its many visitors."

Robin Hall, chief executive of the Forum Trust, said: "We are delighted to have reached agreement with Jarrold to open and operate this new shop, as part of our wider plans to modernise and refresh the south wing.

"For us, Jarrold were the obvious choice to work with on this project, as the leading Norwich-based retailer and one of Norfolk's best-known brands. The Forum Shop by Jarrold will be an exciting addition to the Forum's mix of cultural, educational and inspirational appeal."

Detailed plans for the new shop are now being developed by Jarrold Retail, building on much of the market research undertaken over the past few months by the Forum Trust team, three of whom become Jarrold employees from next week.

The Forum Shop by Jarrold and the new Norwich Tourist Information Centre will be the first elements of the south wing developments to open to the public.

The other new facilities are due for completion by Christmas and will open to the public early next year.

Courtesy of EDP

05 September 2008