As we continue to settle into a post pandemic era the resilience of bricks and mortar retail is evident as Marshall’s Yard in Gainsborough demonstrates.
The impact of COVID-19 was felt deeply at the 15-year-old shopping centre, with a number of large retailers closing down including Laura Ashley, Halfords, New Look and DW Fitness.
The centre bounced back with a stronger food and beverage offer, with the opening of Caldero Lounge, and attracted more homeware and essential stores such as JYSK and The Range to the line-up creating strong footfall to the centre and appealing to changing consumer needs.
Towards the back end of 2022 the centre has seen its popular opticians, Specsavers, take the former Seasalt unit allowing them the space to expand their range of vital healthcare services and team of employees into 2023. The company is fitting out now aiming to open in March.
Neighbouring store, Fatface, stopped trading shortly after Christmas and is now being transformed into a trendy coffee bar which will be operated independently but offering 200 Degrees Coffee.
Estates Director for Dransfield Properties, James Shepherd, said: “A combination of Covid and company voluntary arrangements (CVAs) saw a spike in store closures, however we’ve been pleased with the centre’s performance and its ability to attract well-known national brands as well as high-quality independent businesses, which has always contributed towards the centre’s diversity and popularity.”
The centre’s independent department store, Browns, celebrated its 10th year at Marshall’s Yard last year and have been quick to soak up brands leaving the centre over the years ensuring they stock popular labels such as Joules and Seasalt following their departure. This has kept the Yard shopper happy and allowed Browns to continue to evolve keeping things fresh and interesting.
Footfall has strongly returned and even exceeded pre-pandemic levels at Marshall’s Yard, particularly over the recent Christmas season highlighting the shopper’s desire to shop in physical stores and not just online.
Centre Manager at Marshall’s Yard, Jodie Pacey, said: “Marshall’s Yard has always been more than a place to carry out shopping for people. It’s an oasis for families, couples, friends and all other parts of the community to come together, enjoy the outdoors and connect with people.
“Our need for products and services is everchanging but the drive to interact with people and experience social landscapes is consistent, if not more important to people than ever.”
Marshall’s Yard continues to give back to the community by holding free family events and by carrying its ongoing work with local charities.
