City shopping centre manager marks 30 years in role

THE manager at Chester’s Forum Shopping Centre, is celebrating 30 “busy but very enjoyable” years in the role.

Manchester-born 70-year-old Lawrence Allen is now marking his achievement with a series of celebratory get-togethers with a number of senior industry figures with whom he has worked over the past three decades.

The celebration comes just weeks after the Northgate Street shopping complex had officially seen a return to pre-recession activity levels with footfall statistics confirming rising shopper numbers.

“I’m delighted to be celebrating my 30th anniversary in the shopping centres at a time when the Forum is in full flow,” said Allen.
 
“The recent recession presented our industry with some very serious challenges but I am delighted to say that the Forum is now through that period and busier than ever,” he said. “ It is great to see the growing number of shoppers back and enjoying the new stores and making purchases.”