MCARTHURGLEN Designer Outlet Swindon has opened its doors to the New Year following a successful Christmas trading performance, with last week being a record-breaking period in the centre’s history.

The outlet recorded a positive sales growth for the full eight weeks of Christmas trading with sales up 14 per cent compared to last year.

Due to an extended bank holiday following Boxing Day, the outlet saw a sales increase of 37 per cent year-on-year and footfall increase of 25 per cent year-on-year on December 27, making it the best performing day followed by New Year’s Eve which rung in 23 per cent more sales than the same day last year. Sales were also up 20 per cent year-on-year on Christmas Eve from men searching for last minute gifts during the ‘man-dash’.

Best selling items throughout December were noted as denim, leisure equipment and sportswear.

Tina Cumpstey, the outlet centre’s manager, said: “The centre’s strong Christmas trading performance has rewarded us with a positive start to the New Year.

“Due to the extended Boxing Day bank holiday and New Year’s Eve falling on a weekend; families have been able to shop for longer as well as enjoy the many elements that make the outlet more than just a retail destination, such as our range of restaurants, children’s play area and in-centre activities.

“New store openings, such as Hamleys, have also been a great hit with visitors.”