'I got a first look at Scotland's new Uniqlo store and this is what shoppers can expect'
Glasgow art, sustainability, top-notch clothing and a very aesthetically pleasing walkaround - what's not to love?
Global apparel retailer UNIQLO has landed in its second Scottish city and the excitement is palpable. Plans to "regenerate" the city's shopping scene while championing sustainability will take shape on Glasgow's Argyle Street.
The new store officially opens today, Thursday, October 2, where, in addition to offering its signature simple, quality, everyday clothing, from basic tees to comfy bottoms, local Scottish brands and artisans will be spotlighted.
Boasting an impressive 1,100 sq. meter space across two floors, the Japanese retailer showcases its full collection of casualwear for men, women, kids, and babies for the first time ever to shoppers in the Dear Green Place.
"Perfectly positioned in the heart of Glasgow's thriving retail scene, this location offers the ideal setting to showcase our LifeWear to a diverse and dynamic community of shoppers," Alessandro Dudech at UNIQLO UK said.
"It also gives us a fantastic opportunity to champion local partners as part of this opening, collaborating with creatives and organisations that reflect the spirit and energy of the city."
The Record was lucky enough to be invited to a store preview. And between canapés, prosecco, and an in-house DJ pumping out some great tunes to the front of the store, we noted some key things shoppers should expect.
Recycling station and Govanhill art installation
Recycling, repairing, and remaking take centre stage at UNIQLO's store in Glasgow - and we love to see it.
Located on the first floor, the RE.UNIQLO Studio invites customers to recycle, repair, and remake their favourite UNIQLO items so as to extend the life of their wardrobe while embracing more mindful fashion choices.
Glasgow's vibrant local community is not forgotten about in this movement, either.
UNIQLO has partnered with Govanhill Baths Community Trust to champion giving pre-loved items new purpose.
As part of this initiative, pre-loved LifeWear pieces have been transformed into a striking in-store installation that tells the story of Govanhill and pays tribute to UNIQLO’s Japanese roots.
The display features a handcrafted tapestry wall and a sashiko inspired denim seating area each stitch a symbol of tradition, craftsmanship, and the RE.UNIQLO philosophy of recycle, repair, and remake.
Fans can also donate their old Uniqlo clothing in store which will be donated to those who need it. Very cool.
Scottish cultural food icon makes appearance
Fancy a biscuit break? In a unique celebration of Scottish heritage, UNIQLO has teamed up with Tunnocks Biscuits, the iconic Scots treat, for an exclusive range of embroidery designs featuring its most recognisable sweet treats.
For a limited time only, customers can personalise their UNIQLO garments with four Tunnocks motifs, available exclusively at the Argyle Street RE.UNIQLO counter until October 31, 2025.
With trays of Tunnocks treats being circulated throughout the evening, it was tempting not to get a wafer emblazoned or subtly suggested on a white tee, or embroidered on a crossbody bag. Maybe the next time.
No Matcha Bar
If you're looking for something to wash down your Tunnocks Tea Cake, you might be disappointed to discover that UNIQLO's Glasgow Argyle Street store does not offer the same beverage options as its Scots counterpart.
UNIQLO's second UK in-store café, selling Japanese goods like matcha drinks and sweet treats, opened in Edinburgh last year. Developed alongside Japanese tearoom, Katsute100, the space has sadly not been replicated in Glasgow.
However, there are plenty of matcha and coffee places dotted around the city centre, so you will never find yourself too far from an iced drink after you've splurged.
Glasgow's artistic talent celebrated on every wall
UNIQLO's Argyle Street gives a very well-deserved nod to Glasgow based mural collective, Cobolt Collective.
Known for their bold, community-driven designs, the group has created a striking staircase installation that celebrates the spirit of Glasgow its people, iconic landmarks, and rich street art culture as you ascend floors.
The mural reflects the vibrancy of the city and the creative voices who call it home. You may recognise Cobolt Collective's designs from down the Barras or just off Argyle Street, drawing on a section of a Liz Lochhead poem.
The artwork ensures that while you immerse yourself in Japanese designs, you are firmly rooted in Glasgow life.
Clothes for every occasion and comfort never compromised
What struck me about UNIQLO's extensive clothing collection is how there is an item for every occasion.
And you never need to sacrifice comfort to snap up a really stylish and 'together' fit.
From the 100 percent Lambswool Collection to the JW Anderson Classic Oxford Shirts - which I wish I'd picked up in every colour - to wear-to-work pieces, or long puffer jackets that are easy but modish to wear walking the dog.
Best sellers like their shoulder bag and now world-famous cotton T-shirts feature heavily.
The aesthetically pleasing and well-organised set-up of the store makes it easy to peruse each aisle, without the usual stress of scattered sizes or crumpled clothes, so your eye is easily drawn to each individual garment.
Self-service tills scan everything for you - just place your basket in the slot, pay the amount and go.
A seamless but enjoyable shopping experience is always welcome and this is what UNIQLO offers.