Bluewater records uplifts in August

Sales of menswear and womenswear rose 8% at Bluewater in August

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Bluewater shopping centre said like-for-like sales were up 2.5% in August with footfall up 8.5%.

Bluewater said that womenswear and menswear sales were both up 8% against August 2007, with premium brands performing particularly well.

Sales of accessories rose by 13% during the month.

The figures fly in the face of comments made by Marks & Spencer chief executive Sir Stuart Rose earlier this year, when he claimed that shoppers were no longer driving to centres such as Bluewater because of rising petrol prices.

Bluewater general manager Andrew Parkinson said: "Bluewater's sales and footfall performance in August reflect the increasing tendency for guests to concentrate their spend on locations that provide a comprehensive offer and enjoyable experience."

He added: "As economic conditions continue to toughen, we believe this trend will grow. The destinations that outperform the market will be those that evolve their tenant mix, create a rounded guest experience that goes beyond shopping, and work closely with their retailers and caterers to maximise guest spend."

Bluewater recently signed deals with Kurt Geiger, Hollister, Nike and Carpisa to open at the centre.