Skating concept rolls into Trafford Palazzo
Having secured a deal to deliver an ice arena at TraffordCity last week, Peel has now signed up restaurant operator Archie’s to run a diner-come-roller-rink.
Archie’s Atomic will span 24,000 sq ft and be located next to two other Trafford Palazzo attractions, NERF Action Xperience and SEA LIFE Manchester Aquarium.
Mohammed Amer Rafiq, managing director at Archie’s, said an Archie’s branded leisure concept had been in the works for a while.
“Deciding on a location was a vital part of the process of bringing it to life. At Trafford Palazzo, we have a ready-made destination catered perfectly towards experience-led retail and leisure.”
The Trafford Palazzo site will be the ninth site Archie outlet, which opened its maiden restaurant on Manchester’s Oxford Road in 2010. There are five in Manchester, one existing site at the Trafford Centre, and one each in Leeds and Birmingham.
Archie’s, a halal American-style diner popular for its burgers, is also planning to expand into London and the Middle East.
“The new concept will have all the excellent food, drinks, and décor you would expect from any of our Archie’s sites, but with exciting activities for all the family to explore,” Rafiq said.
“It’s a hugely exciting year for Archie’s, with the expansion into London and internationally in the Middle East – we can’t wait to open Archie’s Atomic, and we’re looking forward to welcoming Trafford Palazzo’s community through the doors.”
Archie’s Atomic is due to open to skaters and diners in summer 2024.
The concept will allow both beginner and experienced roller-skaters to participate, with the space also offering opportunities for brand activations, local graffiti artist takeovers, and private bookings for larger format corporate events, according to Peel.
The signing of Archie’s Atomic is a continuation of Peel’s drive to transform Trafford Palazzo into more than just a retail destination.
“The commitment of yet another debut concept is evidence of Trafford Palazzo’s appeal, catchment, and forward-thinking approach, and it’s great to play a part in the expansion of a local favourite,” said Mark Whittaker, executive director of retail and leisure at Peel.
“We’ve attracted a string of world and UK firsts over the past year, including NERF AX and King Pins, and Archie’s will be another great addition to the UK’s first next-generation experience centre.”
