DW Sports will launch a brand new concept store in Gateshead Metrocentre on Friday, December 8, the first in a planned expansion across the UK for the company.
Former Newcastle United footballer Shay Given will be putting his goalkeeping gloves back on and being challenged to a penalty shoot out by shoppers. Customers will be treated to £20 gift cards with every purchase over £50, as well having the chance to win prizes, listen to DJ sets and take home freebies throughout the day.
The new 15,000 square foot store split across two levels will showcase the major new scheme which DW Fitness First Group, operator of many stores and gyms across the UK, is implementing. The store will feature advances in sports technology, including a gait analysis machine and expert staff to help customers choose the perfect running shoes.
The store will also offer a full sports performance range across five of the north-east’s most popular sports categories including running, football, swimming, gym training and rugby for men, women and children. Ranges stocked in the store will include Adidas, Under Armour, Nike, Puma and Asics, amongst others.
This new store also marks a new direction in the look and feel of DW Sports stores, moving away from dark and heavy colours of traditional sports shops with lighting and materials which create a softer, brighter look. This space and store offering has also been designed specifically for the needs of customers in the area, taking feedback from the DW Sports store and gym in Byker.
Matt Sharpe, retail director of DW Sports said: “This is an important milestone for DW launching one of our most exciting stores to date in the Metrocentre. We’re excited to share the new look and feel of the store, as well as DW’s continued focus on performance based sports in the hope that everyone in the UK can find their own active.”
DW Newcastle will be working closely with local athletics clubs and charities as part of the new launch, with an event with England Athletics taking place on December 13 at 6pm.
Laura Weightman, 1,500m finalist at the recent World Athletics Championships, will talking about her journey in athletics and hosting a Q&A session. David Lowes, the leading endurance coach, who has coached many Team GB and England athletes will be delivering a winter training talk and running drills to help you prepare for the season ahead. Plus, Gemma the Nutritionist from The Food Doctor will be attending for Q&As and sampling.