Fashion outlet trebles in size in latest expansion

Michael Carroll and Paula Lynch

A couple have trebled the size of their independent fashion store, 10 years after opening in Stretford Mall.

Former street trader Michael Carroll and his fiancee Paula Lynch set up the Half Price Outlet, starting with a small kiosk at the shopping centre.

They soon moved into a larger shop unit where they have developed a loyal customer base selling big-name clothing brands at affordable prices, including lines from the likes of Next, F&F, Evans, M&S, and Burton.

Now they have just expanded into a 5,750 square foot unit inside the Mall.

It is three times larger than their previous base, allowing them to showcase more of the outlet stock which has made them a favourite with local shoppers.

It comes as Stretford Mall is undergoing a major £2m transformation to build a new entrance with a brighter, more modern glass frontage looking onto Chester Road.

Dad-of-three Michael and mum-of-two Paula, both 54, say they are looking forward to the next decade serving the community they have grown to love.

They currently employ four staff at the Half Price Outlet, and hope to be able recruit more in future.

Michael said: “The thing I like about Stretford is it’s a very mixed and vibrant community. We have always felt very welcome here.

“We probably know 80% of our customers, a lot of them are regulars and they come in and have a chat. It really is a family atmosphere.

“They respect good quality and a good deal, and that’s why they like us because they know we are affordable.

“We know we are a draw for the mall, it’s the same for Aldi and Quality Save, they are the places local people want to shop.”

Stretford Mall manager Gareth Wilkins said: “The Half Price Outlet has long been a favourite with our shoppers here at Stretford Mall.

“We are delighted that Michael and Paula are making a success of the business and very pleased to be able to provide them the opportunity to expand.”

Michael, originally from Everton and now living in Crosby, North Liverpool, began as a market trader selling childrenswear in Liverpool, before making the move to open the business in Stretford.

Michael said: “We’ve trebled in size. It means we can display more stock and show it off well.

“The other unit was getting too small and we were ready for this expansion. It’s a big difference to when I started out with a street stall.

“It’s exciting to take the business to the next stage, and hopefully we’re looking forward to the next 10 years.”

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