Half Term Footfall Remains Strong
February 16 2009
Shopper footfall in London’s West End saw a 3.0% year-on-year increase last week , as domestic shoppers decided to stay in the UK for half-term school holiday activities. Domestic visitor half-term increases were seen by both shops and theatres in London’s West End this half term.
Jace Tyrrell, spokesperson for New West End Company, who are responsible for enhancing and promoting retail in London’s West End, said: “For the last six months, West End retailers have been reporting on the major increase in Euro shoppers making the most of the extremely favourable exchange rates. However, last week felt like Christmas again, with stores reporting a notable increase in the proportion of domestic shoppers, taking advantage of the fantastic offers and brands that are exclusive to the West End.’
Families from all over the UK seem to have made London and the West End their “Half-Term Holiday” visit, enjoying some excellent theatre and hotel deals for overnight accommodation.
Jace Tyrrell added: “London Fashion Week which launched on Friday also seemed to kick start shoppers’ spirits for the spring and summer fashion sales, with stores reporting a flurry of excited shoppers keen to bag a summer bargain.”
Gareth Davies Marriott, Store Manager, Hamleys said: “Hamleys is having its best ever half-term week. It seems many families, both from the UK and further afield still want to experience the magic of Hamleys, despite the recent pressure on many other retailers. In particular the new Ben 10 products have been flying off shelves.”
Antony Smith, Deputy Store Director, Selfridges says: "We saw a significant increase in footfall last week with a very strong performance across menswear, womenswear, accessories and beauty. Tax-free shopping continues to exceed all expectations with overseas visitors still taking advantage of the favourable exchange rate. Restaurants saw a particularly marked increase in trade as families from both the UK and abroad spent time shopping and browsing in-store during the half-term break. The Ultra Lounge has also been a popular destination for visitors, with the launch of the first urban art sale in aid of youth charity The Prince’s Trust."
James Bradbury, Retail Operations Director, Liberty added: "Following the unveiling of the Liberty renaissance by Slumdog Millionaire actress Freida Pinto, Liberty’s half-term trading performance has been fantastic with growth not just with domestic customers but also with international customers who absolutely love the avant-garde British luxury brand. Bestsellers include the NIKE Liberty limited edition trainers, which sold out in one day.”
Theatre sales were also booming as domestic families make that half-term trip to the West End. The Society of London Theatre reported that ‘tkts’, the Official Half Price Ticket Booth, had its busiest week for several years and have had to call in extra staff to cope with the demand from families this week.
London’s West End continued to enjoy the shopping presence of the international visitors, with Global Refund reporting an increase in sales of 38% in January. The top three international shoppers for January are from the Middle East, China and Russia.