Gloucester Quays footfall rises 7% in FY24

Gloucester Quays has revealed a record period of sales and footfall performance up 11% and 7% respectively. The outlet is also celebrating its 15th anniversary, going from a new destination in the South West when it launched in 2009, to establishing itself as the dominant retail and leisure hub in the city of Gloucester. Covering April 2023 to March 2024, Gloucester Quays benefitted from a significant sales uplift when compared with the previous year. Leading the performance increase was the destination’s retail offer, with double-digit growth at 12%, bolstered by leasing in that time, as international brands Next and Puma were added to the scheme, alongside upsizes for the likes of Mountain Warehouse, Hallmark and Yankee Candle. F&B also increased revenue year-on-year, the 9.5% rise supported by the addition of new Turkish restaurant brand Anatolian Palace. While restaurants generated a sales uplift of 6.6%, it was the outlet’s coffee shops that showed the most growth at 17%. Meanwhile, the 7% footfall uplift indicates the increasing relevance of an outlet shopping and dining experience for Gloucester Quays’ tourist catchment. The positive change to visitor numbers was outperformed by the 11% sales boost, suggesting that not only is the outlet attracting more customers, but higher average spend as well. This is further evidenced by car park use, which was up 14% on the previous year. Paul Carter, asset director at Peel Retail and Leisure, said: “This time last year, we were celebrating a 6% increase in sales, in the context of a challenging retail environment. Now, we have raised the bar again, the 11% sales and 7% footfall increases are a clear indication that our visitors are dedicated to spending their time and money at Gloucester Quays. “As an established, top 10 UK outlet with consistent growth, we are committed to taking this customer experience even further, continuing to tailor the offer to match exactly what our loyal catchment wants and needs.” Mark Whittaker, executive director – Peel Retail and Leisure, said: “When Gloucester Quays first launched in 2009, it did so amidst the most difficult economic circumstances, with the impact of the global recession being sharply felt. Fast forward 15 years and it’s clear to us that we have a format that has enduring appeal, taking Gloucester Quays from a designer outlet many commentators thought wasn’t needed, to one of the best performing in the country and a vital part of this historic city. “We’re proud of the journey the destination has taken, and this landmark moment, alongside record performance, only gives us more reasons to be excited about the future of Gloucester Quays.”