RETAILER SPOTLIGHT: LEEKES
March/April 2026
housewareslive.net
purchasing, while more functional names like Beldray and Addis provide everyday relevance. Categories are structured to include a range of price points, ensuring accessibility while still offering aspirational options. “We work with our suppliers to make sure customers understand the
difference in value,” says Ms Littlejohn. “If something is higher priced, it needs to be clear why.” The store’s layout supports this approach, with branded shop fits from key suppliers including Le Creuset, Robert Welch, Brabantia, OXO and Joseph Joseph helping to showcase product quality and design. Design-led brands also play an important role in differentiating the
Leekes offer. Many of these brands are selectively distributed, meaning customers actively seek them out in-store. “They’re important for driving footfall,” Ms Littlejohn explains, “and they help set us apart from other retailers.”
Another notable aspect of the redevelopment is the integration of fashion and home. By positioning clothing alongside home departments, Leekes has seen increased sales and longer dwell times, reflecting a more lifestyle-driven approach to retail. “Customers don’t shop in silos,” says Ms Littlejohn. “When the environment encourages exploration, they naturally move across categories.” In today’s retail landscape, creating a compelling in-store experience
is more important than ever. While online shopping offers convenience, physical retail has the advantage of offering something more immersive. “Inspiration, reassurance and service are key,” Ms Littlejohn says. “Customers still value being able to see and feel products in person, particularly in home categories.” This is where sensory retail comes into its own. The weight of a pan, the texture of a fabric or the finish of a product can all influence purchasing decisions in ways that cannot be replicated online. “Those details are often what convert interest into purchase,” she explains.
And for the future? Looking ahead, the Llantrisant store will continue to evolve. Plans include the introduction of a new in-store coffee shop with outdoor seating, as well as further enhancements to improve the overall customer experience. The learnings from this redevelopment may also be applied to other Leekes locations, although any changes will be tailored to the specific needs of each store’s customer base. As for the future of housewares retail more broadly, Ms Littlejohn believes customer expectations will continue to rise. “Customers will
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expect stronger curation, clearer value and more joined-up lifestyle inspiration,” she says. Success will depend on the ability to combine convenience with experience, creating spaces that are both efficient and enjoyable to shop.
After such a significant transformation, it is the overall flow of the
store that stands out most. “I love how the store now moves from fashion to home styling,” she reflects. “We really cater to all lifestyle needs, and it’s been great to see customers making the most of that, with longer browsing times and increased engagement.” At Llantrisant, Leekes has shown that with the right investment, insight and understanding of customer behaviour, physical retail can continue to evolve, not just as a place to shop, but as a destination in its own right. The team has every reason to feel confident about the store’s future success.
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