Bobby’s continues to evolve as a key part of Bournemouth’s changing high street.
Since the regeneration of the former department store began in 2020, the vision has been clear: to create a mixed-use destination that meets the needs of a modern town centre while supporting the local community.
Bobby’s re-opened its doors to the public in August 2021, first welcoming visitors with THE GIANT Gallery, followed by a curated mix of local and global retail across the Ground and Lower Garden Floors.
The building is now home to community and flexible workspace provider PATCH on the first floor, and The Botanist on the fourth floor, offering an unrivalled restaurant and bar experience.
Bobby’s has now confirmed that the ground floor space currently occupied by independent beauty retailer Bobby’s Beauty Hall will be redeveloped into two new retail units.
These new spaces will introduce new retail offerings "designed to complement the existing tenant mix at Bobby’s and the evolving needs of Bournemouth’s high street".
It quickly became a destination for beauty and fragrance, known for its welcoming environment, personalised service, and exclusive events including its much-loved Gala Nights.
Andy Birt, Director at Bobby & Co, said: “The closure of Bobby’s Beauty Hall comes with real sadness, and my thoughts are with the colleagues affected by this decision. I would like to sincerely thank the team for their passion, commitment, and the vital role they played in helping establish Bobby’s in the town centre.”
“That said, we remain firmly committed to attracting new retail offerings to our ground floor that complement our existing tenants, including The Botanist, Patch, Gozney, and Bobby’s Emporium.”
“We continue to evolve Bobby’s to meet the changing needs of Bournemouth’s high street and are encouraged by the strong commercial interest already shown in our ground floor space. Over the next six months, residents and visitors will see significant investment in redeveloping and fitting out the Ground and Second Floors, with new tenants set to be announced in the coming weeks.”
The decision to close the Bobby's Beauty business comes as a result of the challenging economic landscape currently facing all UK high streets, alongside increasing competitive pressures within the luxury retail sector and the now well publicised rising operating costs faced by all businesses.
Paul Kinvig Chief Operating Officer at the BID added: “Our high streets & businesses are constantly changing & evolving, and we are no different. Bobby’s are a pivotal part of our town centre and this next stage development of the building is part of the emerging future.
“Thoughts are always primarily with those people whose employment is affected and I hope the exciting next stage of the building affords them opportunities.”
A closing date has not been confirmed at this time, until then the Bobby’s Beauty team wish to celebrate the business by welcoming customers in-store and offering special closing discounts and promotions.
