Over £600m contributed to North East economy through popular intu shopping centres

intu Eldon Square and intu Metrocentre have contributed £601.8m to the local economy.

This is according to a new report from intu, showing 2018’s results. Almost 20,000 jobs were supported by the two shopping centres - said to represent 12 per cent of all jobs in the area.

intu’s research has also found that, including intu’s retail, delivery and maintenance employees, the company has supported 132,950 jobs and contributed £4.8bn to the UK economy.

This is said to be an increase of 128,490 jobs, with an economic contribution of £4.6bn in 2017.

intu Eldon Square, Newcastle.

Matthew Roberts, intu’s chief executive, said: “Retail is a sector that Britain can really be proud of.

“The best shopping centres employ people in a wide variety of jobs across the length and breadth of the country and are catalysts that create economic and social value.

“intu supports more than 130,000 jobs and contributes billions to the prosperity and wellbeing of communities around the country.”

The research will be published in intu Eldon Square and intu Metrocentre Corporate responsibility highlights report which is being issued by the centre this month.

Gavin Prior, regional centre director at intu, added: “With 34 million customers at intu Eldon Square and 20 million customers at intu Metrocentre in 2018, we take our responsibilities as being a major part of the community seriously.

“Being at the heart of our community helps us create a long-term, sustainable business that brings value to all our stakeholders. We initiate and support projects that focus on disadvantaged young people, health and wellbeing and accessibility.”