Frasers Group appointed MCUK to transform a former three-storey retail unit into a 135,000 ft², high-specification multi-fascia concept store at the Metrocentre, Gateshead. The project involved a full strip-out and fit-out to create a flagship destination combining premium fashion, global sports brands, luxury beauty, food and beverage outlets, and a state-of-the-art Frasers gym—delivered within a demanding programme.
Key challenges included achieving effective acoustic separation for the upper-floor gym, replacing outdated HVAC systems with energy-efficient solutions, and reconfiguring the atrium, lifts, and escalators to improve circulation and maximise retail space. The integration of large-format digital displays and an evolving design brief required close collaboration, flexibility, and precise coordination throughout the build.
As Principal Contractor, MCUK delivered a full end-to-end service from pre-construction surveys through to completion. A detailed master programme, early procurement of long-lead items, and collaborative working with the client, landlord, designers, and subcontractors ensured efficiency and control.
Bespoke technical solutions included a floating floor system and enhanced acoustic treatments for the gym, alongside modern HVAC and intelligent LED lighting to improve sustainability and performance. MCUK’s agile site management allowed late-stage design changes to be accommodated without impacting programme or quality, all while maintaining a zero-incident health and safety record.
The project was completed on time, within budget, and snag-free, enabling the store to open as planned. The reconfigured atrium and circulation significantly enhanced customer flow and visibility, while high-end finishes and digital technology created a distinctive, modern retail environment.
The success of the Metrocentre store set a new benchmark for Frasers Group and led to further large-scale fit-out commissions across the UK, reinforcing MCUK’s reputation for delivering complex, fast-track retail transformations.
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