One of the UK’s most popular toy brands has opened its first standalone store in the country at a Kent shopping centre today.
Playmobil flung open its doors at Ashford Designer Outlet at 9am.
Dozens of shoppers were buying goods at Playmobil today
Displaying its signature Playmobil toy – a 7.5cm human figure with a smiling face – other gifts on offer at the unit include accessories, buildings and vehicles.
Shoppers normally buy the German brand’s products from the likes of Argos and The Entertainer.
However, the new brick and mortar store is the first of its kind in the country and the UK is only the third country after Germany and Austria to accommodate a store selling solely Playmobil merchandise.
It replaces the unit formerly occupied by Moda in Pelle, in between All Saints and Tripp.
Centre manager, Peter Heritage, told KentOnline: “It’s a fantastic day at Ashford Designer Outlet as we celebrate the opening of Playmobil.
Ashford Designer Outlet’s centre manager, Peter Heritage
“We’ve seen a great response from our visitors eager to explore the new store, perfectly timed for those looking to get a head start on their Christmas gifting.
“We have had just Ravensburger so we’ve been quite light on that type of shop.
“So Playmobil will elevate that sector and is in a great location opposite guest services
“We always want newness and we always do what we can to accommodate brands in categories we need to strengthen.”
Playmobil’s arrival comes a month after Cadbury joined the outlet and just 10 days after Cornish Bakery returned to the complex after an eight-year absence.
Playmobil has opened its doors at Ashford Designer Outlet
Bosses say the 1,500 sq ft bakery, in the former Comptoir Libanais unit, seats 58 visitors inside, a further 61 outside and employs 22 members of staff.
Meanwhile, KentOnline can reveal fashion brand, Pepe Jeans, is to join the outlet tomorrow while fellow retailer Weird Fish will be unveiled on Monday.
Weird Fish will be joining Ashford Designer Outlet next week
It will see the centre 100% occupied for the first time since its £90m extension opened six years ago.