Despite fears on the high street regarding the critical Christmas trading period , Leeds’ premier shopping centre, Victoria Quarter, has returned a strong performance with footfall up a notable 6% on 2010.

Over 930,000 shoppers visited the centre during December, which, after a prolonged period of difficult trading on the high street, further serves to confirm VQ's status as the city's principal shopping destination.

John Bade, VQ Centre Director commented, “Of course footfall is only ever half the story as takings in store are the real indicator. Initial feedback from our stores show sales have also risen, with some tenants reporting sales significantly up on last year.”

Confidence in the VQ remains high, not only with shoppers but also with both existing tenants and new brands. 2011 saw a number of significant new stores open in the centre, including Kiehl’s, Illamasqua, Wolford, L’Occitane, Kuoni and local Leeds tailor James Michelsberg. Additionally, Hobbs extended their existing store by opening a dedicated unit for their NW3 brand.

It’s a trend that continues into 2012, with a number of new stores looking to open in the centre in the first quarter.

Mr Bade added, “Whist not at all complacent about the market as a whole, the recent arrivals certainly speak of a continuing confidence in VQ and Leeds as a whole, which I hope bodes well for what remains an unpredictable year ahead.”

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