HAPPY 1ST BIRTHDAY FOR THE MALL BLACKBURN
An amazing first year of growth and success!
That’s the verdict of Loraine Jones, General Manager of The Mall Blackburn after the newly refurbished and extended £66m East Lancashire shopping centre celebrated its first birthday.
Loraine, who oversaw the completion and launch of the multi-million pound complex in July 2010, said it had been an amazing 12 months, culminating in the opening of the new Blackburn Market, located on the lower level of The Mall.
Newest retailers Pandora, Primark, UCS, Bank and H&M have proved to be major attractions to shoppers from Blackburn and beyond, and are now among 100 retailers located at The Mall Blackburn.
The arrival of the new Primark store – the 200th in the UK – attracted thousands of people last year when Hollyoaks star Ricky Whittle was asked to officially cut the ribbon.
Other developments, such as the opening of a new, bigger JD Sports as well as unique events including a ‘Zoo to You’ day by Blackpool Zoo, Easter festivities and promotions such as a health and beauty bonanza have also enticed more shoppers.
Figures to date show an overall increase in footfall of 11per cent with significant spikes of more than 25 per cent in April, May and June.
Other exciting developments during the past year including widespread industry recognition with nominations for the SCEPTRE awards which recognise excellence in shopping centre management, and also accolades for The Mall Blackburn security teams.
The Mall Blackburn’s car park has also retained its prestigious safer parking status ‘Park Mark’ for the second year running.
Loraine Jones, General Manager at The Mall Blackburn, said:
“It’s amazing to think that the newly refurbished The Mall Blackburn has been open for a year now.
“The investment has been hugely positive for Blackburn and has significantly contributed to an improved shopping choice for the people of Lancashire.
“It has been fantastic to welcome brands that have not previously had stores in the town. Primark, Bank and Deichmann are just three of many examples that are new and are attracting a lot of interest from across the county.
“With footfall continuing to increase month on month, and on-going positive feedback from customers, we are very proud that all our hard work is making a real difference.
“The addition of the new Blackburn Market has also been a boost to the town and, with continental style food stands alongside more traditional market stalls, there really is something for everyone here at The Mall Blackburn.
“We are looking forward to a very positive future with more exciting announcements coming soon.”
Ends
Pictures show: Loraine Jones, General Manager at The Mall Blackburn, celebrates with staff and management from The Mall and its retailers.
Notes to Editors:
- The Mall is the UK's leading community shopping centre fund. Managed by Capital & Regional and Aviva Investors, The Mall Fund owns 11 shopping centres across the UK - home to approximately 1400 retail units and attracting approximately 2.3 million shopping visits every week.
- The Mall Blackburn is situated at the heart of Blackburn town centre with over 600,000 sqft of retail space and over 90 retailers including Debenhams, Primark, Bhs, Boots, WH Smith and Tesco, as well as a number of independent retailers.
- For further editorial information about The Mall, Blackburn, contact Denise Dawson, Julie Hackett or Paula Holden at ICG on 01772 679383.
denise@icgonline.co.uk, paula@icgonline.co.uk Julie@icgonline.co.uk
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