Northumberland shopping destination reports “exceptional” year for footfall

Morpeth shopping destination Sanderson Arcade has recorded its highest footfall since pre-pandemic, with almost 80,000 visitors in just one week during the festive period.

The management team are now busy planning their diary of events to further drive footfall to the centre which will include the Morpeth Food and Drink Festival this October, following its return last year.

2.85 million people visited the Arcade in total last year which is a level of footfall not recorded since 2016 proving the shopper’s desire to shop in physical stores and not just online.

Centre manager Lottie Thompson said: “The Arcade has always been more than a place to carry out shopping for people. We hold regular family events and have a strong eating out offer making it a popular choice for families, couples, friends and all other parts of the community to come together, enjoy the outdoors and connect with people.

“Our need for products and services is ever-changing but the drive to interact with people and experience social landscapes is consistent, if not more important to people than ever.”

As well as welcoming new stores such as Mr Simms sweet shop and Bridal Reloved, a number of well-established stores reaffirmed their commitment to the centre with lease renewals and significant refurbishments.

The centre’s independent department store, Sandersons Boutique, also celebrated a strong year introducing a number of new boutique designer ranges to its store including Grace & Mila, Pretty Lavish and FRNCH to their ladies’ wear which already includes Holland Cooper, Levi’s, Barbour, Barbour International, Whistles and Ugg.

Boasting the “most exclusive range of luxury fragrances outside of London” stocking Atkinsons, House of Oud, Chanel, Parfums de Marley, Initio, Montale, Robert Piguet and Marc-Antoine Barrois, the store also introduced Miller Harris last year as well as launching its own luxury fragrances, One and Two.

Store manager, Erica Malpass, added: “The store opened during a challenging time with lockdowns and reduced visitors numbers to navigate. We are thrilled to now see a loyal customer base visiting our store and cannot wait to hold more events and bring more new fabulous fashion and beauty ranges to this part of Northumberland.”

This year visitors can expect “exciting” announcements soon on two further businesses opening at the Arcade in the two remaining units as well as a jam-packed events programme including the centre’s dog-themed event, Sanderson Barkade.

By Matthew Neville – Senior Correspondent, Bdaily

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