A large new store is set to open in York tomorrow (Friday).
Søstrene Grene, the Danish homewares specialist, is opening in Ousegate House on Nessgate on Friday 24 November at 10am.
As previously reported, the first 100 customers tomorrow will receive a free large, tufted rug, and the first 150 customers will get an exclusive canvas goodie bag, filled with a selection of Søstrene Grene products.
For the opening, shoppers will also be treated to light refreshments, like fizz and cupcakes, and a live performance by string musicians.
‘Søstrene Grene’ is Danish for ‘The Grene sisters’, and the concept behind the store is that two sisters, Anna and Clara, travel around the world and find the “wonderful” items that populate the shop.
“There’s a lot of smells, touches and sights,” said Jonathan Cooper, UK joint venture partner of Søstrene Grene, said. “It’s a lot of products in boxes that you can pick up and feel – we’re very keen for people to be tactile with the product.”
Products include everything from interior decor and soft furnishings, to food items and stationery, to hobby items and children’s toys. And lots of Christmas products like decorations, wrapping paper, gift bags, and more.
“There’s something for kids, there’s something for adults, and there’s something for everybody – from nine to 99.”
Inside the shop it’s a one-way system, and it’s like a “labyrinth” with something new to discover round every corner.
The brand aims to keep its prices low, and has kept its affordable prices after the pandemic and during the cost of living crisis.
This store will be the brand’s eighth location in the North of England, and they’ve “always wanted to open in York.”
“There’s a strong connection with Denmark in the first place because of the Vikings,” said Jonathan. “It’s such a beautiful historic city. It fits so well with the product and this is the perfect location.”
The redeveloped Nessgate building was once home to the Royal Bank of Scotland. Inside, classical music will be playing as you walk round the store, and the interior has a lot of dark wood.
“The journey that you experience in this store is just so unique,” said Jonathan. “People fall in love with it.”
The reaction on social media to Søstrene Grene opening in York has been “unbelievable.”
“They’re opening a big store on Tottenham Court Road next week, and there’s been more interest on social media for this store than that one.
“People have been coming to the door constantly while we’re setting it up. So we know that people are really keen to come in and have a look.”
Søstrene Grene in York has created 20 jobs. It opens from 10am tomorrow. It will then be open every day 9am to 7pm (Mon-Sat), and 11am – 5pm on Sundays.
For more information about Søstrene Grene, visit their website.
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