UK retail chains open new stores in Essex and Gateshead

PURESEOUL, a Korean beauty retailer, opened its seventh London store and 17th UK outlet at Lakeside Shopping Centre in Essex on 31 July 2026. The launch featured free goodie bags for the first 100 ticket‑holders, a lucky‑dip with prizes such as a Medi‑cube device, and a weekend of promotional events.

A day later, on 1 August 2026, Home Bargains launched a super‑size store on the Team Valley trading estate in Gateshead, taking over the former Homebase premises. The new outlet includes a GardenWorld garden centre, a café offering £1.99 breakfast sandwiches, and a licence to sell alcohol. It expands the chain’s local portfolio alongside existing stores in Gateshead and Washington.

Both openings aim to broaden product ranges and attract shoppers with discounted prices and added amenities.