Debenhams is said to be in early-stage talks with WeWork over letting space at its flagship Oxford Street store in London. The retailer is also trialling smaller formats and in-store gyms to use space in its 240 stores. IWG is also eyeing the ailing retail sector, with CEO Mark Dixon suggesting the group would have "quite a few locations in a year or two in more retail-type situations", citing the benefits of good locations, parking and other facilities. But it seems that while some retailers are looking for ways to make their stores more efficient, others are still trying to find new revenue streams.
Debenhams is said to be in early-stage talks with WeWork over letting space at its flagship Oxford Street store in London. The retailer is also trialling smaller formats and in-store gyms to use space in its 240 stores. IWG is also eyeing the ailing retail sector, with CEO Mark Dixon suggesting the group would have "quite a few locations in a year or two in more retail-type situations", citing the benefits of good locations, parking and other facilities. Sports Direct's Mike Ashley recently added to his holding in Debenhams on share price weakness, prompting speculation of a takeover.