Get ready, Liverpool! A new discount store is about to shake things up in the city centre, but it’s not without a touch of controversy. The space once occupied by Bodycare, a high street beauty brand that dramatically closed its doors after collapsing into administration, is now being taken over by Savers—a move that’s sparking debates about the future of retail in the area.
Here’s where it gets interesting: Back in September, Bodycare announced the closure of 31 stores across the UK, including the Clayton Square location, citing stock shortages and the soaring costs of running physical shops. The once-bustling store was reduced to ‘everything must go’ posters and a countdown to its final days. Fast forward to now, and Savers—owned by the same company as Superdrug—is stepping in with a promise of unbeatable prices on health, beauty, and household essentials. But is this a sign of retail’s resilience or just another chapter in the struggle of high street stores?
Opening on Thursday, January 22, the new Savers store isn’t just about bargain hunting. It’s also bringing 10 new jobs to the area, a welcome boost for local employment. Store manager Rachel Parrott is even giving away 500 goody bags, worth over £15 each, to the first 500 customers—a gesture that’s sure to draw a crowd. Sean Watret, Savers’ stores operations director, told the ECHO, ‘We’re thrilled to become Liverpool’s go-to destination for all things home, health, and beauty.’
And this is the part most people miss: While this is Savers’ first venture into Liverpool’s city centre, it’s already a familiar name in Merseyside, with stores in Birkenhead, Wallasey, Bootle, and Old Swan. But its arrival in Clayton Square raises questions: Will it thrive where others have struggled? Or is it just another player in the ever-changing retail landscape?
Clayton Square itself has a rich history, celebrating 36 years since its opening in 1989. Over the decades, it’s seen the rise and fall of iconic brands like Tammy Girl, Principles, Disney, and Oasis. Its 2014 makeover transformed it into a single-level mall, removing escalators to create a more open space. Today, it’s home to Boots, B&M, Clayton Nails and Spa, and other businesses, but the addition of Savers marks a new chapter.
Here’s the controversial question: As discount chains like Savers continue to expand, what does this mean for the future of high street retail? Are they a lifeline for struggling shopping centres, or do they signal the end of an era? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—we’re eager to hear your take on this retail revolution!
