Now we're already in February - it's great to see the amount of businesses and projects that want to come to the North East.
Throughout County Durham, Darlington and Teesside, there have been numerous businesses announcing they will be coming to the region in 2024.
The Northern Echo has pieced together several big brands that we're excited to see open in Durham, Darlington, Teesside in 2024.
From Primark to Popeyes and from Starbucks to independent restaurants, there's plenty to look forward to.
Here is the list:
Popeyes
Fried chicken chain Popeyes will open a restaurant and drive-thru at the new retail park in Bishop Auckland.
The Louisiana-based brand will move into the new Fieldon Bridge Retail and Leisure Park development later this year.
Plans include fifty seats inside, outdoor seating, a drive-thru, kerb-side pick-up bays and a car park.
Neil Williamson, Popeyes’ Newcastle-born Chief Operating Officer and, said: “Following the success of our Metrocentre restaurant, we are thrilled to bring Popeyes to Bishop Auckland, marking our second venture in the North East."
Primark
Signs have gone up revealing the date of Primark’s launch at a popular North East retail park.
Following months of speculation surrounding the retailer’s opening at Teesside Park as more plans are put to Stockton Borough Council (SBC), signs touting a launch this Summer have been put up on Unit 11.
Previously, plans concerning a two-storey extension to the rear with the installation of a mezzanine floor, new shop front, and associated plant and machinery had been submitted to the council.
It's expected Primark will move to Teesside Park in the Summer of 2024.
Starbucks
A big-name brand has been linked with the site of a former restaurant on the outskirts of Darlington, as developers start work on the empty unit.
On Tuesday (January 30), workers were spotted on the site of the old Akbar Dynasty and Tulip restaurants on the A66, near Sadberge, next to the Esso garage.
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After becoming Tulip Indian Restaurant in June 2022, the venue closed last year - with the restaurant not officially releasing a statement on closure.
While no name was linked to the planning application, beyond the WardmanBrown as architects and Cliff Court Developments Ltd as applicants.
The Northern Echo understands that it's Starbucks who are linked with the site in question.
Notch
'First of its kind' restaurant is set to open in Durham, serving up American small plates this spring.
Notch, located at 96 Elvet Bridge, in Durham's City Centre, will serve up BBQ delicacies and small plates, accompanied by signature cocktails.
The owners are hoping to open their new venue in late February or early March, with eyes set on a February 26 grand opening, but work is still ongoing within the venue to get it spick and span.
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