The original store in Leicester
The move marks a historic return home for Jessops – a business originally started as a mail-order company by Frank Jessop in 1935.
In January 2013, Jessops was forced to close all 187 of its stores when it went into administration.
Soon after, the Jessops brand was taken over by entrepreneur Peter Jones who has since opened more than 50 high street stores, but none so far in Leicester.
The new shop is due to open at the Highcross shopping centre in Leicester on 19 August and will initially employ 10 staff.
It will occupy a space of 1,880 sq ft store and provide Jessops Academy courses, alongside photography products and printing services.
Jessops CEO Neil Old said: ‘The last three years have been a whirlwind for Jessops, and 81 years since its inception, we couldn’t be prouder to return to the birthplace of the brand.
‘Our new shop will offer a fully immersive experience into the world of photography for all levels and abilities.
‘Our team of expert and passionate staff will be dedicated to offering the best customer service that Leicester has to offer.
‘And with our “price match promise” you can be sure that you’re getting the best price available on the high street and online – with the added bonus of expert advice from a professional photographer.’
In a recent interview with Amateur Photographer, Old said the firm planned to open up to 20 further stores and did not rule out expansion of the brand into Europe in the future.
