Oakley's O Store takes flagship in London's Covent Garden

One of London's most prominent retail units has finally found an occupier. Sunglasses brand Oakley has taken the former Dr Martens flagship on King Street in London's Covent Garden.

The store fronts directly onto The Piazza, and Oakley plans to operate it as the first company-owned O Store in the UK, with opening expected in the first quarter of next year.

Oakley chief operating officer Link Newcomb said: 'London has been one of our top target markets for an O Store, and the location we have found in Covent Garden is the ideal place to showcase our international brand.'

In recent years, Oakley UK has expanded from its original offer of sunglass and goggles to create a premium product range, including prescription eyewear, footwear, clothing, accessories and watches.

The retailer's O Store format uses larger outlets to showcase the full product range, especially in clothing.