Hammerson has announced a double celebration with Bullring, Birmingham celebrating its 15th birthday and Highcross, Leicester turning 10. The centres chart how the retail backdrop and consumer behaviour have changed.
Both retail destinations were developed by Hammerson and their continued success emphasises the relevance of flagship retail destinations and the growing trend towards urbanisation as highlighted in Hammerson’s recently reshaped strategy.
Both Birmingham and Leicester have demonstrated strong growth over the 15 and 10 year time periods including growth in: retail spend (20.9% Birmingham, 21.7% Leicester), GDP (25.9% Birmingham, 18.8% Leicester) and population (15.4% Birmingham, 11.9% Leicester).
In 2003, the regeneration of Bullring transformed Birmingham’s city centre. With a footfall of over 36 million a year, it is one of Europe’s most successful shopping and dining destinations.
Over the last 15 years, the number of restaurants, cafes, and coffee shops at the centre have doubled, and there are now 67 places to sit or grab & go. Brands include: Browns (pictured), Five Guys, Nando's, and Yo! Sushi. Regional debuts at Bullring include San Carlo Group restaurant and bar, Fumo in 2018.
Highcross opened to the public in September 2008, combining an extensive refurbishment of the former Shires shopping centre, together with a 650,000 sq ft mixed-use extension. The centre is anchored by John Lewis and Debenhams department stores and a Showcase Cinema de Lux.
The retail line-up has been proactively transformed as part of Hammerson’s strategy to reduce reliance on department stores and enhance the retail mix. This includes additional restaurant and leisure space.
The number of food and beverage brands at Highcross has more than doubled over the last 10 years to 36, with the rise of casual dining and the amount of consumer brands more than doubled. Brands include: Benito's Hat, Gourmet Burger Kitchen and Wagamama.
Also, a multitude of services have been added, in response to consumers wanting to buy in both convenience and experience, including a post office, currency change, student tuition, opticians, hairdresser and travel agents.
Mark Bourgeois, Managing Director UK and Ireland for Hammerson, said: “Bullring and Highcross are landmark retail destinations and we are extremely proud of the tremendous role they have played for our shoppers, retailers, staff and local communities over the past 10 and 15 years.
“We will continue to be at the forefront of combining the leading examples of both physical and digital retail by investing in initiatives to differentiate and enliven our destinations, drive shopper footfall and improve catchment sales for our retailers. I am confident both Bullring and Highcross will continue to define the best of retail for many years to come.”