A luxury jewellery brand is returning to a popular shopping centre after 10 years away.

Swarovski will open in a previously empty unit at the Ashford Designer Outlet tomorrow (Friday), just in time for Christmas.

It comes as Vans is also due to return this month after 15 years away.

Newly-appointed centre manager Peter Heritage said: “We had Swarovski in the centre around 10 years ago so we’re really delighted to have them back.

“I think we’ve been a little bit light on jewellery brands over the past few years, and it’s perfect timing as it’s a perfect gifting brand.

“I think they’re opening a few new stores so the fact they’ve chosen Ashford Designer Outlet as a location is ideal for us.”

It will open in the centre’s extension, joining other new additions Clarins and Hackett.

Mr Heritage says Swarovski’s presence will help boost this end of the centre.

“The customers will love it,” he said.

“We haven’t had as many jewellery brands in the centre as we would have liked over the past few years so this is a category which has been a focus for us to try and improve.

“Customers have requested it.”

Also returning to the outlet after 15 years away is Vans, which is due to open on Friday, December 15, or earlier.

Mr Heritage said: “The shop fit is complete and the team is now in there doing the finishing touches so they’re ready for next week.”

Located opposite Nandos and Yo Sushi, Vans is taking on the former Sole Trader unit.

Today also marked Calvin Klein opening inside its extended unit opposite Tommy Hilfiger.

“It’s one of our larger stores at more than 5,000 square feet,” Mr Heritage says.

“It’s close to double the size of the old store and they’re making great use of the additional space.

“They’re expanding their range of CK Jeans and offering a bra fitting service too.

“It looks amazing and it’s a huge improvement.

With the likes of Swarovski, Vans, Calvin Klein moving – the fact we’ve had North Face open in the last few months, Clarins and Hackett, the centre really feels like it’s had a new lease of life.”

Mr Heritage told of how the centre is at about 95% capacity with lots of brands lined up for the new year.