Sports Direct and Everlast Gyms+ Open at Former Dublin Debenhams Site

Sports Direct and Everlast Gyms+ are launching a joint retail and fitness facility in Dublin, occupying the site of the former Debenhams store, according to the Irish Independent. The development integrates a large-scale sports apparel outlet with a dedicated fitness center to repurpose the vacant department store space.

The project represents a shift in the use of the old Debenhams footprint, moving from traditional department store retail to a hybrid model of commerce and wellness. The Irish Independent reports that the site will now house both the Sports Direct retail operation and an Everlast Gyms+ facility.

Everlast Gyms+ and Sports Direct Site Integration

The new facility combines the retail reach of Sports Direct with the fitness infrastructure of Everlast Gyms+. According to the Irish Independent, this joint venture utilizes the expansive floor plan previously managed by Debenhams to create a multi-use destination for consumers and gym members.

The transition of the site follows the closure of Debenhams, which left a significant vacancy in the Dublin retail landscape. By installing a gym alongside a sports store, the developers are targeting the health and fitness demographic in a single location.

Impact on Dublin Retail Infrastructure

The repurposing of the Debenhams store reflects a broader trend in urban retail where large, single-tenant spaces are divided into specialized zones. The Irish Independent identifies the inclusion of Everlast Gyms+ as a key component in making the site a destination for activity rather than just shopping.

This specific development brings the Everlast brand’s fitness model to the Dublin city center, leveraging the existing visibility of the former department store to attract a high volume of foot traffic.