From the long-awaited revival of historic local landmarks to the arrival of global flagship brands, the next few months will see millions of pounds of investment officially come to life across the city centre and beyond.
Whether it is the produce-led rebirth of the iconic Reliance site as The Smithfield, the aromatic arrival of Dishoom on Vicar Lane, or the sprawling 23,000 sq ft entertainment playground that is Lane7, the rejuvenation of areas such as the Trinity Centre shows Leeds is firmly focused on social experiences and destination dining.
But it’s also a time when some of the city’s most established retailers are making massive moves to keep up with demand. Trinity Leeds is currently the centre of the action, preparing to launch three major up-sized flagship stores this April.
From high-tech footwear hubs to an expanded home for LEGO fans, these relocations prove that even the most familiar brands are looking to offer something bigger and better for 2026.
So, what’s opening in the immediate future and beyond? Here are our 11 picks of what to keep an eye out for as spring rolls into the city.
7. UNIQLO (Late 2026)
The massive 12,000 sq ft flagship in the old House of Fraser building remains a major construction project, with a launch targeted for the latter half of the year. | Simon Hulme
8. Sticks 'n' Sushi (Early 2027)
While it's been a major talking point this year, this high-end Japanese-Danish spot is a longer-term project for the Grade-II listed building at 80 Vicar Lane. | Submitted
9. Footasylum (April 2026)
Still currently trading as a "pop up", the move to the massive 12,000 sq ft flagship in the old Superdry unit is in its final stages. | Submitted
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10. Schuh (April 2026)
The footwear giant is making its big "step back" into the city centre next month, with the new lower-ground floor unit currently behind shutters for a spring launch. | schuh
11. LEGO Store (Spring 2026)
The final touches are being put on the much larger 456 sq m space. They remain open in their original small unit for now, but the big move is imminent. | LEGO