Leeds’ Merrion Centre reports record number of shoppers

The Merrion Centre, the shopping centre in Leeds city centre, has reported a record breaking period for shoppers.

Footfall across the centre reached record levels in December, January and February, with just over three million visits throughout the three month period, up 5.5% on the previous corresponding period.

The centre welcomed a huge surge in visitors during the Christmas period, the highest on record in December at 1,085,197, a 3% increase year on year.

Visits in January and February were up 3% and 11% respectively, at 946,304 and 1,006,032 people.

The Merrion Centre experienced a strong 2015 with the completion of the Merrion Way redevelopment, which included refurbishment of its multi-storey car park, an extension to Morrisons and the addition of a series of new tenants, including: Smoke Barbeque, Dunkin Donuts, an NHS clinic, Bonmarché and Select.

Edward Ziff, chairman and chief executive of Town Centre Securities PLC, said: “It’s been a positive period for the Merrion Centre and it’s great to see so many people taking advantage of our fantastic shops, services and ever growing leisure offering.

“The Christmas period was particularly busy for us helped by the regeneration of Merrion Way and the new tenant line up and we’re delighted that increased visits has continued into 2016. We strive to offer choice and variety to our customers and will continue to extend our offering.”

Bonmarché is one of latest tenants to join the Centre opening a circa 3,000 sq ft unit on the main mall. Since its launch in December, the new store has benefited from the high footfall at the Centre with positive Christmas trading.

Beth Butterwick, chief executive of Bonmarché, added: “We are delighted to return to Leeds with a brand new 3,000 sq ft, store on the main mall at the Merrion Centre. The store looks excellent and has traded well in its first few weeks. The Merrion Centre was chosen because of the site’s great value, accessibility and customer base and is proving to be a very successful choice”

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