Dalton Park, the largest outlet in the North East, and Livingston Designer Outlet, Scotland’s largest outlet, have reported a record-breaking sales year for 2023, eclipsing their previous achievements in 2022. This trend underscores consumers’ continued preference for quality brands at attractive prices.
Dalton Park experienced a notable 10% year-over-year (YoY) increase in seasonal sales, with an overall annual growth reaching 16.2%. Livingston Designer Outlet mirrored this success with a strong 13% YoY sales uplift. These figures not only establish the outlets as leading shopping destinations in their respective regions but also reflect the growing inclination towards outlet shopping across the UK, particularly during the ongoing cost-of-living crisis.
Operated by Global Mutual, both outlets witnessed significant increases in footfall compared to the previous year. This growth was spurred by the addition of 13 new brands, including high-profile names like Tommy Hilfiger and Calvin Klein at Dalton Park, and Carvela, Timberland, along with an expanded Tommy Hilfiger store at Livingston Designer Outlet. This strategic expansion of brand diversity is part of Global Mutual’s plan to enhance customer experience, increase dwell time, and continuously drive sales.
The positive impact on local communities has been substantial, with more than 150 new jobs created across the two outlets. The expansion also boosted confidence among existing brands, evidenced by many opting for larger retail spaces. For instance, Barbour doubled its square footage at Livingston.
Reflecting on the year’s achievements, Nicky Lovell, Head of Outlets and Business Development at Global Mutual, said:
“2023 has been a fantastic year for our outlets, beating our previous best year in 2019. The fact that so many brands are increasing their presence in our centres demonstrates their faith in the strategy we have in place. We’re delighted to share in their continued success. In 2024, we’ll continue to work with our outlets to help them foster rewarding relationships with their brands, using our extensive experience and valuable internal data to support their business goals and continue to drive growth and value in our assets”.
