The Ridings defies highstreet blues with letting success

Despite reports that the high street is experiencing tough times, The Ridings Shopping Centre in Wakefield is bucking the trend with reports that it has reached almost 95% capacity with a series of recent letting agreements.

New retailers include That’s Entertainment, fashion outlet Opus, Hawkins Bazaar and Sugar Seker who join popular high street stores such as TK Maxx, which has recently undergone a complete refit. Wakefield Wildcats has also opened a new store in the Centre, reinforcing a partnership that will see The Ridings sponsor the team during the 2012 season.

The Ridings has invested in a variety of indoor events, which not only enhance the experience that shoppers and visitors receive but also increase footfall to the Centre, encouraging sales.

Trading is set to receive a further boost with the launch of The Ridings Sunday Market, which will offer greater opportunities for local independent retailers. The Ridings Sunday Market is already fully booked and will feature a whole range of Yorkshire based traders who will showcase their products.

Barbara Winston, Centre Manager at The Ridings comments: “There is a renewed sense of confidence in Wakefield and our footfall is heading in the right direction, which is great to see after such a difficult trading period. We have established stores that are continuing to invest; returning stores such as Past Times and Calendar Club opening for the festive period and the new names that are joining the mix of retailers is great news for our shoppers.

“We’ve put on a number of exciting events over the last few months and have seen strong  footfall because of them. The feedback from shoppers is great and there has been a brilliant atmosphere in the Centre. We’ve also recently confirmed a partnership with the Wakefield Wildcats; we are proud of the team and feel that their commitment to the City is mirrored in our own values.”