Harvey Norman to open new store and UK HQ in Sutton Coldfield creating 100 jobs

Harvey Norman has selected The Gracechurch Centre, Royal Sutton Coldfield for its expansion, following the launch of its flagship store at Merry Hill Shopping Centre in October last year.

The company is expected to create 100 jobs across sales, marketing, online, finance, procurement, operations, warehousing, administration and management, including several apprenticeship opportunities.

The flagship Merry Hill store represents the first in a wave of planned investments across the West Midlands, in support of the business' wider UK and global expansion drive. Harvey Norman is also in advanced negotiations regarding a number of other investment opportunities across the region, expected to create a further 200 jobs.

Katie Page, chief executive at Harvey Norman, said: "The West Midlands' high grade retail space and exceptional connectivity are two key reasons why we've chosen Sutton Coldfield as the home of our new UK headquarters and to launch our next store here.

"Gracechurch will provide an excellent hub for our growing UK team and I look forward to returning to the region soon as we progress our expansion plans."

The West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) is backing plans to breathe new life into the 250,000 sq ft Gracechurch shopping centre through a multimillion-pound investment, including new homes, leisure, retail, commercial and other uses.

Harvey Norman’s investment drive is being supported by the West Midlands Growth Company (WMGC) – the region's official investment promotion agency - which is helping the business to identify possible investment sites.

Richard Parker, mayor of the West Midlands, said: "Harvey Norman's investment is a big win for Sutton Coldfield. It's proof that our high streets can thrive again, creating jobs and giving people more reasons to visit, shop, and socialise.

"With new jobs and homes on the way, we’re delivering real opportunities and making this town a great place to live and work."

Established in 1982, Harvey Norman has expanded its global presence over the last 26 years, with more than 300 stores worldwide across Australia, Malaysia, Singapore, Slovenia, Croatia, New Zealand, the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland.

Stephen Smith, high commissioner of Australia to the UK, added: "The United Kingdom is Australia’s second largest investment destination, as well as our second largest source of investment. This major investment by Harvey Norman into the West Midlands is a great example of how investment is mutually beneficial and supports economic growth and jobs in both Australia and the UK.

"The Australia-UK Free Trade Agreement, which came into force on 31 May 2023, is providing new opportunities to expand trade and investment by lowering barriers to trade and encouraging new investment."