Popular now
Debenhams Group returns to growth amid PLT recovery

Debenhams Group returns to growth amid PLT recovery

Currys appoints Fredrik Tønnesen as Group CEO

Currys appoints Fredrik Tønnesen as Group CEO

Inditex sales rise 5.8% after strong start to summer trading

Inditex sales rise 5.8% after strong start to summer trading

Glasgow Fort sees 10% footfall increase in December
Credit: Chris Watt Photography

Glasgow Fort sees 10% footfall increase in December

On this episode of Talking Shop I’m joined by Alain Bejjani—former Group CEO of Middle East retail giant Majid Al Futtaim, and author of the definitive new book, NEXT: Leading Through the New Realities. Drawing on his childhood in war-torn Beirut, and his experience steering a $9.5bn dollar retail and lifestyle empire through a global pandemic, Alain brings an unmatched perspective on leadership under pressure. Today, we break down his crisis survival playbook for retailers operating in distress. We discuss why resilience must always outpace efficiency, the four assets a brand must protect at all costs, and how to turn macro-turmoil into a long-term direction that scales.

Register to get free articles

No spam Unsubscribe anytime

Want unlimited access? View Plans

Already have an account? Sign in

Glasgow Fort retail park has ended the year on a high, with December footfall increasing by 10.3% compared to the same period in 2023.  

The busiest trading day for the centre was Saturday 23 December, when Glasgow Fort welcomed 89,000 visitors, with footfall up 16% compared to the same date last year. 

Footfall on 27 December also rose by 19% year-on-year, reflecting “strong” post-Christmas shopping and continued demand for Boxing Day sales. As a result, total sales for December increased by 12.6% compared to the previous year. 

Growth was driven by strong performances across key sectors, including fashion, health and beauty and food and beverage, highlighting the continued demand for both retail and dining experiences at Glasgow Fort. The launch of Primark on 5 December further contributed to the centre’s overall positive results.

Throughout 2024, the centre welcomed several openings, including Victoria’s Secret, Adidas, BPerfect and River Island. 

Leasing activity at Glasgow Fort also remained “strong” during 2024, with 35,000 sq ft of retail space completed or exchanged. An additional 33,000 sq ft is currently in discussion, and 54,000 sq ft is under offer.  

Ross McCall, retail leasing and commercialisation director at British Land, said: “December’s trading performance highlights the success of our approach to creating a destination where retail, leisure and dining work together to drive footfall and sales. Our strategy of investing in strong retail brands and delivering engaging customer experiences continues to set Glasgow Fort apart. 

“With footfall up over 10% and sales growing year-on-year, we’re pleased to see how our recent openings and leasing activity have strengthened the centre’s position as a leading retail and leisure destination. As we look ahead to 2025, we’re focused on maintaining this positive momentum and continuing to deliver for both customers and occupiers.”

Previous Post
The rise of AI-driven cosmetics retail

The rise of AI-driven cosmetics retail

Next Post
Today’s news in brief-24/1/25

Today’s news in brief-24/1/25