Gates Optometrists are gearing up for a move to a new CBD location in October.
From this time, Gates will be an anchor tenant in Wiseman Central, a prominent and iconic building situated on the corner of Ward and Victoria Streets.
By returning to Ward Street, the business will have come full circle. Gates began in 1991 as “Eyewear Collection” and was located in Ward Street. In 2004, the practice was renamed “Gates Opticians” and moved to Barton Street. Paterson Burn Optometrists purchased the business in 2010, and changed the name to Gates Optometrists.
“We are committed to staying in the CBD,” said Gates chief executive Darren Savage.
“We’re excited about this new chapter and being located at Hamilton’s central gateway.”
Savage believes that Gates, with its fashion focused brands including Thierry Lasry, Kate Sylvester, Face a Face, Celine, Gucci, Fendi, and LA Eyeworks, will sit well within the fashionable precinct. Upmarket stores Rossellini, Gregory and Harlow Shoes are sited just further south along Victoria Street.
Stark Property, known for their cutting edge and stylish refurbishments, are behind the renovation. In recent years, Stark Property has transformed buildings throughout the CBD such as Riverbank Lane and Southbloc.
Waikato Chamber of Commerce CEO William Durning is thrilled that Gates are remaining in the centre of town.
“Businesses like Gates are reinvigorating Hamilton’s CBD, and companies like Stark Property are a major part of that growth. Stark’s vision and high-end design are providing excellent opportunities for businesses such as Gates to relocate into exceptional purpose-friendly premises.”
The location provides both high foot traffic and excellent visibility from vehicular traffic, and these factors were part of the strategy behind the move. A major development is planned for the opposite corner site, and this too is likely to see other high end retail stores relocate to truly establish the Ward and Victoria Streets intersection as Hamilton central’s fashionable gateway.
Gates will open in its new central city location on Monday, October 2.