STARBUCKS OPENS IN THE MALLS, BASINGSTOKE

International coffee chain Starbucks has opened in The Malls Shopping Centre, Basingstoke.

The 1,600 sq ft shop at Old Basing Mall, has been let on a ten-year lease by Chase and Partners, acting on behalf of the centre¹s joint owners Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council and Key Property Investments Ltd, the joint venture between St Modwen Properties PLC and Salhia Real Estate Co.

The Starbucks deal follows Primark¹s take over last summer of the vacant 87,000 sq ft Allders store which it is currently refitting for opening in the Spring.

Cllr John Leek, leader of Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council, said: "We are delighted to welcome Starbucks to The Malls. This is yet another coup following the Primark deal and we will be announcing further new lettings in due course. We are determined to secure a successful long-term future for the Malls and look forward to welcoming many more high profile companies to the shopping centre."

Paul Arnold of St Modwen, said: "We knew that finding an occupier for the former Allders unit was the key to starting the regeneration of the Malls.

This deal is just one example of the increased interest we have experienced in the centre since the Primark transaction was announced.

"Primark¹s opening in the Spring will provide an extra fillip. We look forward to making more positive announcements as the year progresses."

Retailers wishing to find out more information about the opportunities available at The Malls should contact Hartnell Taylor & Cook (020 7491 7323).

For further information contact Paul Arnold of St Modwen (020 7499 5666).

Issued by Paul Raymer of Howle Chapman Raymer (0121 313 1000).