Grand Opening Celebration – Saturday 6 September 2025
A global pretzel favourite is making its comeback to the North East this September, as Auntie Anne’s, the world’s largest hand-rolled soft pretzel brand, opens a brand-new store at the Bridges Shopping Centre in Sunderland.
To celebrate, shoppers are invited to a special Grand Opening event on Saturday 6 September from 10.45am, featuring:
10.45am: A Giant Pretzel Pulling Ceremony
11am – 12pm: Free pretzel giveaway*
The Sunderland store marks Auntie Anne’s 45th UK and Ireland location and its first return to the North East, bringing its much-loved pretzels back to the region. Customers can enjoy the brand’s signature hand-rolled pretzels, pretzel dogs, and freshly baked snacks made in-store every day.
This launch is part of Auntie Anne’s exciting expansion plan, with the brand set to reach 50 stores by the end of 2025 and an ambitious goal of 100 stores by 2030. The opening comes during a period of record growth, with UK sales up 18% year-on-year.
Max Burton, Managing Director of Auntie Anne’s UK & Ireland, said: “We’re so proud to be opening our 45th store at the Bridges Shopping Centre. Our growth is on track, and it’s fantastic to be sharing Auntie Anne’s pretzels with even more people as we work towards our ambitious goals for 2025 and beyond.”
Karen Eve, Centre Director at the Bridges, added: “A pretzel outlet is something completely new for Sunderland but we are sure they will be an absolute hit. We’re delighted Auntie Anne’s have chosen to open here at The Bridges and can’t wait for people to try them.”
Founded more than 30 years ago in Pennsylvania, USA, Auntie Anne’s has grown into an international favourite with over 2,000 stores across 26 countries. Every pretzel is mixed, twisted, and baked fresh in-store, giving customers a warm, delicious snack straight from the oven.
*One free original or cinnamon pretzel per person, while stocks last. Limited menu available during giveaway.