MORE than 1.5 million people visited Meadowhall shopping centre in Sheffield over the festive period, new figures show.
Statistics just released by the centre reveal there was also an 8 per cent increase in footfall during November 2012, compared to the same month the previous year, as people prepared for the Christmas countdown.
On Boxing Day alone 150,000 bargain-hunters hit the centre’s shops, with some queuing from as early as 2.30am to take advantage of discounts at retailers, including the Next sale.
And the 1.5 million mark was reached in the two weeks spanning either side of Christmas.
Darren Pearce, general manager at the shopping centre, said tills were still jingling.
He added: “Luxury goods including leather handbags, designer clothes and accessories, perfume sets, shoes and electronics were among some of the must-have items for eager bargain hunters.
“From December 28 to 31 we saw an increase in the sales of beauty items including lipsticks, false eyelashes and high heel cushioned pads, as shoppers prepared for New Year’s Eve celebrations.
“Predictably, health supplements, gym wear and sporting equipment have been selling well thanks to zealous shoppers eager to make a prompt start to their January health kick.
“Retailers have been seeing renewed interest in cycling goods following the Olympics and Bradley Wiggins’ Sports Personality of the Year win.”
Meadowhall’s newly refurbished Oasis dining quarter also had an increased footfall in the days between Christmas and New Year, bosses said.
Other retailers have also reported top sales this year.
Sheffield city centre’s flagship department store John Lewis said it experienced a record boom over the festive period and beginning of the post-Christmas sales.
Next - which has branches in the city centre, at Meadowhall and at Crystal Peaks shopping centre - also confirmed a rise.
Total sales from November 1 to Christmas Eve rose 3.9 per cent from a year earlier, with online sales up 11.2 per cent.
* Percentage increase in football during November 2012 - 8
* Number of shoppers at Meadowhall on Boxing Day - 150,000
* Number of shoppers at Meadowhall over Christmas period - 1.5m
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