Bluewater sales growth continues
Published: 13 August, 2010
Bluewater has reported its sixth consecutive month of sales growth, following an increase of 4.2 per cent in July compared to the same time last year, out-performing BRC-KPMG figures which recorded a 2.6 per cent national increase.
Good weather helped increase sales in summer fashion, barbeques and garden furniture, while high profile launches in the electrical sector, specifically televisions, also proved popular.
Anchor store John Lewis, which was the best-performing branch in the country in August, is currently 15.6 per cent ahead of the same week last year, playing a key role in Bluewater’s sales growth.
David Barford, director of selling operations at John Lewis, said: “The strength of John Lewis Bluewater, one of our top performing shops during the last 12 months, is both a testament to the £22 million investment that we made in the branch last year, and the overall quality and appeal of Bluewater. Our new luxury fashion concept has been particularly successful, and our Foodhall, the first outside of Oxford Street, goes from strength-to-strength.”
Bluewater’s general manager, Andrew Parkinson, added: “Key to Bluewater’s success is the quality of our offer, the partnerships that we have with our retailers, and the appeal of Bluewater as a ‘day-out’ destination for guests.
“As consumers, we all have less time to spend and this, combined with ongoing pressures on household disposable income, means that guests are increasingly discerning. To commit time and money to a day-out means having an experience that is memorable and enjoyable, which is where Bluewater excels.”
The news follows a number of new brands announcing flagships at Bluewater, including Hed Kandi’s first store outside central London, Uniqlo and Charles Tyrwhitt. On top of this, many of the shopping centre’s existing retailers have upsized, including All Saints, which recently opened an 8,060 sq ft store.
