It’s official! The former Debenhams site in Blackburn town centre is getting a brand-new lease of life with the arrival of TJ Hughes, and we can’t wait to welcome this iconic department store back to the heart of our community.
Set to open early next year, TJ Hughes will take over the ground floor of the massive unit in The Mall, continuing a bit of a pattern for the retailer, which has taken over several former Debenhams sites. Known for offering incredible deals on homeware, fashion, and so much more, the store promises to be a fantastic addition to Blackburn’s shopping scene. TJ Hughes, a British discount department store chain, has a rich history dating back to 1912 when Thomas John Hughes, a former Royal Flying Corps member, opened the first store in Liverpool. Over the decades, the retailer expanded into a national chain, acquiring locations from other retailers in the 1990s and 2000s. Despite financial struggles in 2011, which led to administration and the closure of many stores, TJ Hughes has continued to rebuild and thrive.
And here’s the cherry on top: plans for the second floor are still under wraps, but there’s plenty of buzz about what could be next. Any guesses?
For long-time Blackburn residents, this news is a bit of a homecoming. TJ Hughes was once a familiar name on Church Street before making way for the development of The Mall and Blackburn Market. Now it’s back, and bigger than ever!
But that’s not all. The Mall has been on a roll lately with some great new arrivals. Popular brands like Waterstones, Flannels, Ramsdens Currency Exchange, Finch Bakery, and even B&M Bargains have all made their mark recently. Bonmarché is also set to open soon, adding even more variety to Blackburn’s vibrant retail offering.
The new store openings mark an exciting revival for Blackburn’s town centre, especially as the retail world continues to recover and adapt post-pandemic. Debenhams, a cornerstone of The Mall since 1979, closed its doors in 2021 after the challenges of COVID-19. While its departure left a noticeable gap, TJ Hughes’ return is a symbol of fresh opportunities and growth.
What are you most looking forward to at TJ Hughes? Whether it’s stylish home décor, bargain fashion finds, or just the nostalgia of having the brand back in Blackburn, this is big news for shoppers across the town. Let’s make some noise for this next chapter for The Mall!
Share your thoughts in the comments – and keep an eye out for updates on the store’s opening date and what’s in store for that mysterious second floor. It’s shaping up to be an exciting year ahead for Blackburn retail!
What do you think? Comment below.
