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End of an era as Harvey Nichols is leaving Leeds after 30 years on Briggate

Such a shame.

Clementine Hall - 7th October 2026

It's time to say goodbye to one of Leeds' most recognisable shops.

One of Leeds’ most iconic shops is set to undergo a major makeover - as Harvey Nichols is reportedly leaving Briggate after three decades.

The luxury department store has been a staple in the heart of Leeds since 1996, but its days under the famous Harvey Nichols name are coming to an end.

It has been reported that the store is set to become a Flannels, following the takeover of Harvey Nichols by Frasers Group earlier this year.

The brand was bought by Frasers Group after the luxury retailer entered administration in August.

At the time, Frasers said the business had faced “sustained trading and operational challenges” and that significant restructuring would be needed.

Now, Frasers boss Michael Murray has confirmed that Leeds and Bristol are the two stores set to lose the Harvey Nichols name and become Flannels.

Murray has said the group plans to invest in its Manchester store, while the future of the Knightsbridge flagship in London is also being considered.

Image: The Hoot Leeds

For Leeds, though, it means saying goodbye to a name that has been part of the city for almost 30 years.

And with another Flannels already sitting just a stone’s throw away, there are plenty of questions about what the change will mean for the city's already luxury-heavy retail offering.

Whether you've dined in the beautiful Fourth Floor Brasserie restaurant or enjoyed browsing the beauty hall over the years, we all have our own memories of Harvey Nichols and there's no doubt it will be missed.

For now, there’s no confirmed date for exactly when the Harvey Nichols name will leave Leeds but we will keep you updated.

Read more: Leeds microbrewery launches Crowdfunder campaign to open city centre taproom

Featured image - The Hoot Leeds

Leeds

An intimate Japanese katsu bar with only 15 seats is coming to Leeds city centre

Clementine Hall

Chef Fern is taking on another venture, and this time it's all about Katsu.

If you know anything about the Leeds food scene, then you'll know the absolute legend that is Chef Fern.

Her first restaurant, Fern Modern Sushi, is a firm favourite amongst locals and visitors alike. Known for their expertly crafted sushi made with only the freshest fish on offer.

Nestled in the Central Arcade, this hole-in-the-wall restaurant captured the hearts of many foodies since opening in 2024.

This year, Chef Fern set her sights on another restaurant on Vicar Lane.

Image: O Katsu

Tori Nori opened just a couple of months ago, a modern Japanese grill centred around the fiery robata where guests can watch the chefs cook everything from grilled fish to delicious yakitori skewers right in front of their very eyes.

Unsurprisingly, Tori Nori has also been a huge hit.

But there's just no stopping Fern as she goes on to open yet another restaurant in the city centre.

Image: The Hoot Leeds

Introducing O Katsu, an intimate restaurant with only 15 covers serving premium katsu.

Katsu is basically a breaded, deep-fried piece of meat, seafood or vegetables. Served with steaming hot rice, shredded cabbage, miso soup and dipping sauces, it's nothing short of delicious and a popular meal enjoyed in Japan.

We don't know much abut the opening date just yet, but what we do know is that it'll be located just opposite her first restaurant in the Central Arcade.

There will be no bookings, and the space will feature an open kitchen so guests can watch the magic happen.

One things for sure, if Chef Fern is involved you just know it's going to be brilliant. We'll keep you updated on the opening of O Katsu as and when we find out.

Read more: Leeds pizza shop hailed ‘exceptional’ and ‘best in the UK’ by major reviewer

Featured image - The Hoot Leeds

Leeds

Deliveroo to bring robot food deliveries to Leeds in major UK rollout

Clementine Hall

Deliveroo and Coco Robotics are set to bring robot deliveries to Leeds through a new strategic partnership.

Next time you order a takeaway...let's just say, it could look a little different.

In the new exclusive partnership, Deliveroo and Coco Robotics are launching in multiple locations, beginning with Canary Wharf in London this October, before launching here in Leeds as well as Milton Keynes, Stockton on Tees and Nottingham in the coming weeks and months.

The rollout marks Coco Robotic's entry into the UK, extending the company’s broader expansion across Europe.

While the majority of orders will continue to be fulfilled by Deliveroo’s rider network, Coco’s fully electric robots are suited to short-distances and navigating urban environments, offering additional flexibility to local businesses on Deliveroo’s platform.

The robots operate at walking place, meaning they're able to move safely through busy streets whilst carrying orders directly to customers.

Image: Supplied

Miki Kuusi, CEO at Deliveroo and Head of DoorDash International: “London is where Deliveroo was born, so it feels fitting that we’re launching our first UK autonomous delivery service with Coco Robotics here before expanding our exclusive partnership to more towns and cities nationwide,
building on our partnership in other geographies.

“We see huge potential in autonomous delivery and we are looking forward to working with Coco to bring more flexibility to our delivery network, helping local restaurants and shops meet increasing consumer demand. We firmly believe that robot and drone technology should benefit High Street businesses of all sizes, helping them remain competitive and meet consumers in new ways.”

Councillor Tom Hinchcliffe, Leeds City Council’s executive member for transport and planning, said: "Our council is determined to embrace the opportunities offered by emerging technology. This approach has already helped establish Leeds as a location for hosting and advising on robot delivery trials.

“Supporting innovation means attracting investment. That's why we are now pleased to be working with Coco Robotics regarding the city’s future involvement in the UK rollout of their partnership with Deliveroo.

“We look forward to exploring the benefits that the rollout can bring to Leeds and its residents.”

Read more: Leeds microbrewery launches Crowdfunder campaign to open city centre taproom

Featured image - Press images