Angling Direct opens new store in Greater Manchester

Fishing tackle and equipment retailer Angling Direct opened a new store in Swinton, Greater Manchester on 21 December, it announced on Monday.

The AIM-traded firm said the opening brought the total number of Angling Direct stores across the UK to 34, with 10 new stores added in 2019, which the board said further strengthened the brand’s presence across the country.

It said the new store - a former fishing tackle outlet - is located on Rutland Street in Swinton, and had been entirely renovated to provide an improved experience for Angling Direct's customers.

The store was situated within a popular fishing area with a “large and enthusiastic” angling community, the board said, and was surrounded by lakes and other river venues such as the River Irwell, the Ribble, and the Bridgewater Canal.

As with all Angling Direct stores, it catered for a wide range of angling disciplines, while also providing service from “local and knowledgeable” staff.

The new store was creating four full-time positions and one part-time position.

“We are excited to have opened our latest store in Swinton which increases our customer reach in the Greater Manchester region,” said chief executive officer Darren Bailey.

“The new store offers products for all disciplines in this very enthusiastic angling community.

“As we continue to cater for all angling disciplines throughout the UK with a new and modern approach towards fishing retail, we remain focused on strategically expanding our store footprint, as well as enhancing our online offering in terms of products, experience and education in order to help raise the profile of angling.”

At 1111 GMT, shares in Angling Direct were up 2.98% at 67.97p.