Shoppers make tracks back to Princes Street

Published on Thursday 10 December 2009 08:37

SHOPPERS have flocked back to Princes Street in their thousands since the tram works were lifted, retailers said today.

The counter outside House of Fraser revealed that 46,348 people visited the street on 28 November – the highest footfall recorded since 31 December last year.

Between 30 November and 6 December the average number of shoppers stood at 36,460, on a par with last year.

William Knight, senior sales manager for House of Fraser, said there had been a different atmosphere in Princes Street since the tram works stopped.

He said: Customers are enjoying the whole experience of coming into town and shopping now and that positive change has been reflected in our figures. Last year was difficult, so we're delighted."

Hazel Tierney, operations manager at John Lewis, revealed that sales in store were up nine per cent on this time last year.

She said: "We're optimistic and trading is a lot better than expected. This year's big sellers seem to be items that families can enjoy together, such as games."

Alan Tomlinson, deputy store manager for Jenners, said: "We've noticed a massive difference in trade and in footfall over the last couple of weeks. Saturday in particular was a fantastic day for us, the busiest so far."