Retail experts are positive about the prospects of
retail in the area, arguing that local footfall has been higher than national trends would lead one to believe. This pattern could be highlighted by the attraction of leading brands to the market town. Demand for marketing services in King’s Lynn might be boosted going forward, in order to attract extra customers. Abbie Panks, a manager of a local retail centre, told the Eastern Daily Press:
“In the last 14 months we have seen increased football every month, except for one - November, which is not surprising as it’s just before the Christmas surge. It’s fantastic news for the town and the figures are not reflected across the rest of the country.”
Ms. Panks suggested that the town has performed well in part because of the number of events that have been held there. She added that consumers got pleasure from their experiences in King’s Lynn and therefore made a point of returning to its shopping offer. Further, Ms. Panks implied that the imminent arrival of two fresh firms to the area should put the closure of a single department store in context.
A new concession has recently been opened within the Vancouver Centre, which Ms. Panks manages. Niche retailer Ikon will now house the Superdry concession along with the brand Joules.