Shops stay open later on Thursdays

Sep 5 2008 by Barry Ellams, Chester Chronicle

THE city’s bid to become a late night shopping destination has stepped up a gear.

Chester Grosvenor Shopping Centre retailers have joined major city centre stores by signing up to open until 6pm on Thursdays to take advantage of the increase in custom following the Free After 3 campaign.

The trial scheme, which offers shoppers the chance to park free after 3pm at city council run car parks at Princess Street and Gorse Stacks, has been a success since it was launched on July 14 with retailers announcing a 25% increase in footfall.

Sharon Boddy, marketing manager at the Chester Grosvenor Shopping Centre, said: “We are delighted to support the city’s Free After 3pm campaign. Chester offers a great shopping destination and the scheme allows customers to make the most of their shopping experience, while offering retailers the chance to increase their footfall and provide a boost to the local economy.

“I would like to thank all the Chester Grosvenor retailers for their support of the scheme and we look forward to welcoming shoppers during our new Thursday opening hours.”

Stephen Wundke, Chester City Coordinator, was delighted with the news: “It’s great to see all the retailers in the city responding to this council initiative. We have always wanted a later night culture in Chester and we understand that retailers can’t stay open if there are no customers.

“Free After 3 seems to be bringing those customers and now Chester shoppers are being rewarded with greater flexibility in the store opening hours. Well done to the Grosvenor Shopping Centre, it is an integral part of our city and we are delighted they are behind our campaign.”