Retail group report positive start to festive late night opening in Town

Friday 15 December 2023

Shoppers have been making the most of the late night shopping experience in Town with indications that footfall is up on last year.

The Guernsey Retail Group has encouraged people to enter the festive spirit early.

The group reported a 35% increase in footfall in Town on Thursday 7 December between 17:00 and 21:00 compared with the same week in 2022.

They have been drawn in by the shops and entertainment, which last night included the Salvation Army Band, buskers and storytellers. 

Small stalls also filled Market Square.

Korinne Le Page, Head of Retail Development at the Guernsey Retail Group, said: “Late night shopping has become a firm favourite in the calendar over many years and we are thrilled to note islanders are supporting local traders and hospitality venues this festive period in greater numbers than before."

“Whilst the weather clearly influences footfall, we are encouraged that numbers were up by a third and also by the continuing reduction in shop vacancies. We therefore see this as a barometer of a healthy sector."

Karl & Lizzie from Wink in Le Pollet were pleased with the first two nights.

“The evening trade has been great and it’s fantastic to see multi generations enjoying the festivities together in Town.”

A competition run by the GRG encouraged shoppers to attend the first two nights on 30 and 7 December,  with prizes won by seven shoppers, who qualified by spending a minimum of £25 at participating retailers. 

There is one more shopping evening in Town on 21 December. 

Retailers stay open to 21:00. 

Ms Le Page added: “We are very grateful to the Petit Train and to CT Plus for putting on services specifically to support our community and they too are pleased with the uptake compared with previous years.”

According to the GRG, footfall between 17:00 and 21:00 on 7 December was 30,520 compared to 22,492 on 8 December 2022.