Consumers are beginning to feel the bite of the credit crunch and, as people begin to tighten their purse strings, many retailers across the country are preparing for a long and difficult period. Not so, says Middlebrook Retail and Leisure Park, as its visitor figures continue to buck the downward trend.

The 634,000 sq ft sq foot retail park at Middlebrook has seen a marked increase in visitor numbers over the past two years and the upward trend isn’t showing any signs of slowing down.

Figures released by the park reveal a 2.72% increase in visitor’s year on year for the month of July with more visitors to the park in July this year than in December 2003. To date the park has seen a 1.71% increase on the same period last year (2008-2009).  Part of this growth can be attributed to the opening of a number of new stores by big name retailers including Phones 4 U, Greggs, Carphone Warehouse and Costa Coffee (in 2008) and Sleeprite (2009).  With the arrival of Chiquitos and Frankie and Benny’s in 2010 the park is ever increasing in popularity.

Heather Ingham, Marketing and PR Executive for Middlebrook, says: “Despite the difficulties facing consumers in the current economic climate, Middlebrook continues to record strong footfall figures and retailer performance - a testament to the hard work of our retailers. 

She continues: “The park offers a strong retail mix and free family entertainment activities, so it is more than just a shopping experience, families come here for a day out.”

Heather concludes: “We strive to make ours the premium retail and leisure experience in Greater Manchester and, with the promise of more well known brands joining the park in early 2010, the future for Middlebrook looks brighter than ever.”