Network Rail sees record 7.8% growth in station retail sales in last quarter of 2013
Network Rail has reported that like-for-like sales at its retail outlets at its largest stations grew by 7.8% from September to December 2013. The station operator said the period was the most successful quarter on record for Network Rail managed station retailers.
Network Rail’s latest trading figures were compiled from the sales results of retailers operating from over 500,000 sq ft of retail space across 16 of Britain’s biggest and busiest stations owned and operated by Network Rail. The stations have a combined annual footfall of over a billion.
Top performing stations included King’s Cross where sales were up by 26% on the same period last year. This was followed by Manchester Piccadilly and Liverpool Street where sales rose by 10.7% and 8.7% respectively.
Trading at King’s Cross benefited from a major investment scheme which included new retail outlets being added to the station as welll as more food and beverage brands.
Never Miss a Retail Update!Pubs and bars performed best in stations in the period (+13.9%), followed closely by Specialist Food (+15.8%).Other top performing categories include Dining (+14.1%) and Health & Beauty (+12.7%).
High performing brands included Wasabi (+19%), Paperchase (+16%), Body Shop (+14%), Boots (+12%), Hotel Chocolat (+12%), Caffe Nero (+8%), M&S (+8%) and Oliver Bonas (+8%).
Hamish Kiernan, commercial director of retail, Network Rail, said: “Station trading continues to grow dramatically, significantly outpacing the high street. Guaranteed footfall and convenience are key drivers of this growth and both are great selling points for the railway. Stations offer a vibrant and healthy trading environment and we are continuing to attract new brands to meet the needs of passengers and local communities alike.”
