Luxury handbag brand kate spade new york is to open at a shopping centre.

The designer accessory brand will launch its first “full-price standalone store outside London” at Bluewater in time for Christmas.

It will move into a 1,600 sq ft boutique in the Lower Guildhall formerly occupied by Aspinal of London, which is moving to a 1,300 sq ft space on Upper Guildhall.

It is the company’s fifth store in Britain after Regent Street, Covent Garden, Sloane Square and Westfield. It also has sites in Paris and Oslo.

Deborah Lloyd, president and chief creative officer of kate spade new york, said: “It’s incredibly exciting to be opening our first store outside of London.

“With a reputation as the leading retail and leisure destination in the UK, Bluewater was a clear choice for our first full price store outside London.

“As an American brand with a global sensibility, we are looking forward to introducing the full breadth of the kate spade new york lifestyle offerings to new and existing brand fans in the region.”

kate spade new york was founded in 1993 and has grown to more than 140 shops and outlets across the US, plus another 175 internationally.

Robert Hardie, senior portfolio manager at Landsec, co-owner and asset manager of Bluewater, said: “kate spade is the latest high-end brand from the US to select Bluewater to create a statement store, following the announcement of the additions of Coach and Smashbox.

“This very strong level of demand from such aspirational retailers is a reflection of Bluewater’s appeal amongst affluent guests, for whom Bluewater provides a premium offer and experience.

“Along with other premium brands such as Michael Kors and The White Company, Bluewater offers a genuine alternative to central London.”