‘Student pound’ helps boost trade at shopping centre
For the second year in a row, The Merrion Centre in Leeds says it has seen an “exceptional” surge in student footfall, with more than 415,000 visitors coming through its doors during the start of the new term.
It represents a growth of more than 36% year-on-year, which the centre attributes to its expanding range of retail and leisure venues, as well as the evolving local environment.
The area now has more than 9,000 apartments, with an additional 4,000 either on-site or under development.
The Merrion Centre notes that it is now attracting students from across the city’s universities and colleges including University of Leeds (37.6%); Leeds Beckett (26.5%); Leeds Art Gallery (8.8%); Notre Dame Sixth Form College (6.9%) and Leeds City College (6.5%).
James Broughton, head of marketing communications for Town Centre Securities PLC, owner of the Merrion Centre, said: “We are continually evolving our strategy to welcome new and returning students back to the city and it’s fantastic to see such positive numbers returning once again to the Merrion Centre.
“As we celebrate our 60th year of being part of the great city of Leeds, we’re thrilled to see our tenants actively participate in our campaigns, ensuring visitors continue to shop, eat, drink and be Merrion throughout the year.”