Peacocks to Open New Store at Rochdale Riverside as Footfall Increases by 15.3%

British clothing retailer Peacocks has secured a long-term lease for a 10,181 sq ft unit at Rochdale Riverside, which is now 92% occupied. The store is set to open at the beginning of October 2026, further enhancing the shopping and leisure offerings at the centre.

The announcement follows a significant 15.3% increase in footfall at Rochdale Riverside, with nearly 200,000 visitors recorded in July alone. This upward trend in visitor numbers has been consistent throughout 2026, indicating a growing interest in the retail destination since its opening in Spring 2020.

Rochdale Riverside, which spans 200,000 sq ft, features a mix of shopping, dining, and leisure options, anchored by a 50,000 sq ft Marks & Spencer store and a six-screen Real Cinema. Other national retailers at the centre include Next, H&M, Boots, and JD Sports. Ollie Holland, asset manager for Rochdale Riverside at RivingtonHark, expressed confidence in the centre's appeal, stating that the addition of Peacocks reflects strong demand for well-located retail space.

Councillor Danny Meredith, cabinet member for regeneration and housing at Rochdale Borough Council, welcomed the new store, noting that it would be a popular addition to the shopping centre. Peacocks, established in 1884 and now operating 345 stores across the UK, is known for its budget-friendly clothing options, which will complement the existing retail mix at Rochdale Riverside.