Merseyway Shopping Centre Marks Record-Breaking 2024 with Seven Million Visitors and more!

Seven million visitors, four major store openings, 13 lease renewals and more than 20 events mark a successful 2024 for Merseyway Shopping Centre, solidifying its role as a cornerstone of Stockport’s thriving town centre.

A highly successful 2024, footfall is projected to reach an extraordinary seven million visitors by the end of the month.

This year, Merseyway reinforced its position as a premier retail destination by welcoming major new tenants, including Tesco, Poundland, and Eyehut, while JD Sports relocated to a larger unit showcasing its latest store design. Looking ahead, three additional tenants are set to join the centre in early 2025.

In 2024, the centre also renewed or extended leases for 13 key tenants, ensuring the continued presence of popular brands such as OFFICE, The Perfume Shop, Pandora, HMV, and Beaverbrooks. These successes demonstrate Merseyway’s success in providing a first-class shopping experience featuring some of the UK’s most beloved high-street names.

Supporting Independent Businesses

Merseyway’s Pop-Up Shop initiative has seen remarkable growth in 2024, with a 23% increase in bookings compared to 2023. This affordable, short-term retail opportunity has attracted a growing number of local entrepreneurs and independent businesses eager to test the high street in a vibrant setting.

Engaging Events and Community Highlights

Merseyway has hosted over 20 events in 2024, driving both footfall and spending. Notable highlights include:

• Summer of Sport activities and the Merseybay beach attraction.
• Seasonal favourites like Hallowgreen and Christmas initiatives such as the Giving Tree and the Christmas Express Depot, where children trained as elves and met Santa.
• Collaborations with Stockport town events, including Stockport’s Town of Culture Weekender and Spectacular Sunday, which saw an impressive 80% increase in Sunday footfall.

This year, Merseyway unveiled the UK’s largest recycled bottle top mural, a stunning 18m x 4m piece created by local artist Caitlin Atherton of Plastic Shed. Featuring 80,000 plastic lids, the artwork highlights the centre’s dedication to sustainable practices and community engagement.

Looking Ahead: Stockroom and Regeneration

As part of Stockport’s ambitious £1bn regeneration programme, Merseyway continues to evolve. Key developments include the upcoming Stockroom, set to launch in Spring 2025. Transforming 135,000 sq ft of vacant space, Stockroom will offer a modern library, café, and dynamic event spaces designed to foster cultural and community activities.

Meanwhile, the centre’s public spaces have undergone enhancements, including new seating and landscaping, making Merseyway an inviting destination for shopping and leisure.

Partnerships Driving Growth

In collaboration with Stockport Council, Merseyway supports initiatives like the STOK and Merseyway Innovation Centre, which offer modern, flexible office spaces. Both schemes have seen increased occupancy, underscoring their success in attracting businesses to the town centre.

As Stockport transforms into a vibrant hub for residents, visitors, and businesses, Merseyway Shopping Centre remains a pivotal force, blending retail, culture, and community in one dynamic location.

Cllr Colin MacAlister, Cabinet Member for Economy and Regeneration at Stockport Council, said:

“Merseyway exemplifies what’s possible with the right mix of investment and vision, and demonstrates how shopping centres can evolve beyond traditional retail and become hubs for creativity and innovation.

“Projects like the Merseyway Innovation Centre and the upcoming Stockroom highlight our forward-thinking approach to town centre regeneration. These initiatives, along with community-focused and cultural events are transforming Stockport into a destination where people want to visit, work, and live.

“The continued attraction of nationally renowned retailers, even during challenging economic times, speaks volumes about Stockport’s positive momentum. Merseyway is central to this resurgence, reflecting our ‘One Stockport, One Future’ vision of a vibrant, modern destination where residents can enjoy a happy and healthy life.”

Victoria Nichol, Merseyway Centre Manager said:

“This year has been a resounding success for Merseyway. The support from both tenants and visitors has been fantastic, and we are proud to play a central role in Stockport’s regeneration. With new tenants, exciting events, and transformational projects including Stockroom, we are looking forward to an even bigger and better year ahead.”