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Daily Record
Daily Record
National
Debbie Hall

What cost of living crisis? Shoppers flocked to shops at Christmas as outlet reports increase in sales

Livingston Designer Outlet has posted impressive trading figures for the last year and has continued its success story into 2023.

The outlet is celebrating a 9.92 per cent increase in like -for-like sales compared to the last 12 months and a 13 per cent increase in sales in the run-up to Christmas.

The owners of the mall say these are a marked achievement, as it was subject to a £7million overhaul in 2019, only for the pandemic to hit five months later.

The outlet is operated by Realm Asset Management and boasted 33,000 sq. ft of new signings, pop-ups and store expansions (notably from Hugo Boss and Levi’s) in 2022.

Realm said its “sensitive yet aspirational marketing and impactful sales promotions” really hit the mark in 2022, with Black Friday delivering a 13 per cent increase and the established VIP discount event in October smashing records with a boost of 47 per cent.

But perhaps the most impressive gains seen at the centre have been in developing ESG and charitable activities that clearly resonated with the hearts and minds of generous locals. Partnerships were set up with Cancer Research UK, Mind in Scotland and Pinewood School resulting in fundraising, recycling and pop-up retailing
which all far exceeded their targets and made for a more wholesome experience for visitors.

Karen Stewart, outlet manager said: “These year-end results have been an incredible team effort across the board from brand partners enhancing their stock packages
and store environments to record levels of participation and returns on investment from our promotional events.

“Whilst few people can predict the future and the cost of living crisis continues to change shopping habits, 2022 has served as an endorsement for Livingston Designer Outlet.”

She added: “Since 2019 we have built on our reputation as a trusted, welcoming and conscientious retail and leisure destination.

“Looking beyond the trading performances, we have grown significantly in popularity and are confident about the year ahead with a sense of purpose that will remain relevant for years to come.”

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