When the shutters came down for the final time and Lifestyle Sports decided against renewing its lease in the Jervis Centre in Dublin, there were few eyelids batted. However, when that same news was repeated, but with the name Debenhams, there was a feeling of collective surprise.
The Jervis Centre, in many ways, mirrors modern Ireland. Once shiny and rich, it has since seen a waning in fortunes – with many former occupants seeking their fortunes elsewhere. But all is not lost – Jervis will soon be welcoming two brand new stores, Forever 21 and New Look. Forever 21 is a Los Angeles-based retailer that specialises in cheap yet stylish clothes – think Zara meets HM. It has 460 stores worldwide, but the one in Jervis will be its first in Europe. The great news is, not only will the American brand be providing a new lease of clothing life for the city, it will also provide 250 jobs. The store opens next month. The more familiar UK retailer New Look is also setting up shop in Jervis. Its new store, at 30,000 sq ft, will be the biggest New Look store in the world – and its flagship store in Ireland. If only all news could be this positive. Ian McCourt
