Gloucester Quays sees festive boost in sales and footfall following new arrivals
Peel Retail & Leisure has announced that sales and footfall at Gloucester Quays increased over the festive period, following a series of new arrivals at the scheme.
Following Black Friday which coincided with November’s payday in 2025, Gloucester Quays recorded a 6.5% year-on-year (YoY) increase in retail sales for the month. Food and beverage operators in particular also delivered positive results, achieving a 2% YoY uplift.
In December, footfall for the month rose by 5.5% YoY. The arrival of Gloucester Quays’ free-to-attend Christmas market, now in its 13th year, proved a significant draw to the destination.
The market’s attractions contributed to a spike in weekend footfall at Gloucester Quays, averaging a 15% YoY increase across the seven weeks leading up to Christmas. Retail sales in December increased by 1.1% YoY, with the homeware and gifting category leading the way with an increase of 66.3%. Menswear also saw strong growth, with sales up by 31.2% during the same period.
These results came off the back of a number of new signings throughout 2025. Last year, the outlet shopping centre welcomed new arrivals including Søstrene Grene, Ben Sherman, Label Yard, and Men Kind, alongside the relocation and upsize of Crew Clothing. Festive pop-ups from Calendar Club and Gloucester Docks’ own Gloucester Brewery also enhanced the seasonal offer, achieving full retail occupancy for the festive period, whilst the total centre occupancy currently stands at 96%.
This trading momentum has continued into 2026, with the first week of the year delivering YoY growth across retail (+13.5%) and F&B (+5%), resulting in an overall sales increase of 10.7%. Further growth is expected as leasing activity continues, including the forthcoming opening of leisure operator Clip ‘n Climb, and several upcoming F&B signings.
Paul Carter, asset director at Peel Retail & Leisure, said: “These results highlight the strength of our diverse tenant mix and the impact of targeted new arrivals, introduced throughout 2025 in direct response to changing consumer demand. Our emphasis on being a ‘crossover outlet’ has provided this platform for success, bringing together an offer, environment, and experience that makes Gloucester Quays stand out.
“As we look ahead to what 2026 has in store, we’re focused on further broadening our leisure and F&B offer to complete an environment in which our retail brands can continue to thrive.Gloucester Quays is resonating with visitors seeking a full day-out experience in a unique historic waterside setting, and we remain committed to evolving the scheme to set a new benchmark for the outlet model, and reinforce our position as a leading regional destination.”
This announcement follows the news that five fashion brands have reaffirmed their commitment to Gloucester Quays, with lease renewals secured for M&S, Adidas, Asics, and Eden Menswear, as well as a significant store refit for Joules.