Outlet Retail Centers Demonstrate Resilience with Record-Breaking Performance

In an era marked by retail uncertainty and shifting consumer habits, outlet destinations have emerged as remarkably resilient performers. Recent data from leading retail property giant Landsec provides compelling evidence of this trend, showcasing record-breaking results that underscore the enduring appeal of value-driven, experiential shopping.

The sustained strength of outlet retail is not merely anecdotal; it is backed by significant financial metrics and consumer behavior patterns. As traditional retail grapples with e-commerce competition and economic pressures, outlet centers have carved out a distinct and profitable niche by combining brand appeal with compelling value propositions.

Record-Breaking Performance Metrics

Landsec's outlet portfolio, which includes Gunwharf Quays, Braintree Village, and Clarks Village, delivered exceptional results during the critical Black Friday trading period. The company reported an 8.1% year-on-year sales growth across its outlets during Black Friday week, continuing a pattern of sustained growth that began with a record-breaking performance in 2024.

This growth translated into tangible financial results, with the three destinations generating a combined consumer spend of £16.3 million across the week. Perhaps more tellingly, footfall increased by 8.6% year on year, demonstrating that despite the convenience of online shopping, consumers remain willing to visit physical locations for the right retail experience.

Individual Destination Success Stories

The success was distributed across Landsec's portfolio, with each center achieving notable milestones. Braintree Village enjoyed a record-breaking week, with Saturday seeing its highest single day of footfall since the pandemic began. Clarks Village recorded its highest-ever sales day, while Gunwharf Quays saw its biggest-ever sales week, building on last year's record performance.

Gunwharf Quays' performance was particularly noteworthy, as the outlet recorded its highest-ever single-day revenue alongside a 9.8% year-on-year increase in footfall. The success extended to individual retailers, with 25 brands achieving record sales weeks at Gunwharf Quays alone, while a further nine brands set new records on Saturday.

Consumer Spending Patterns

An analysis of what consumers were purchasing reveals interesting insights into current shopping priorities. Across Landsec's outlet portfolio, shoppers spent the most on health & beauty products, which saw a 46% week-on-week increase. Gifts, cards, toys, and books followed with a 43% increase, while accessories saw a 40% rise.

These categories have shown strong momentum throughout 2025 across Landsec's outlet destinations, suggesting that outlet shopping serves specific consumer needs beyond mere apparel purchases. The data indicates that consumers are turning to outlet centers for gifting, self-care, and accessory purchases, areas where value and brand recognition intersect effectively.

Strategic Implications for Retail

The continued success of outlet centers carries significant implications for the broader retail property sector. Landsec's performance demonstrates that physical retail destinations can thrive when they offer a compelling combination of brand names, value pricing, and an enjoyable shopping experience. The 8.6% increase in footfall during Black Friday week specifically "demonstrates the continued strength of in-person retail during key calendar moments," as noted in the company's reporting.

This trend also highlights consumer focus on discounts, as shoppers visited destinations already offering reduced prices to take advantage of even greater markdowns during promotional periods. This behavior suggests that outlet centers have successfully positioned themselves as destinations for savvy shoppers seeking maximum value from recognized brands.

Future Outlook for Outlet Retail

Landsec's record-breaking performance builds on consistently strong trading across its outlet portfolio and follows what the company described as "a record-breaking year for spend across major Landsec retail destinations during the last financial year." This continuity of success suggests that outlet retail's resilience is not a temporary phenomenon but rather a structural shift in consumer preferences.

The outlet model appears well-positioned to navigate current economic challenges, as consumers increasingly seek value without sacrificing brand quality or shopping experience. As traditional retail continues to evolve, outlet destinations offer a proven formula that combines operational efficiency with consumer appeal.

The sustained performance of Landsec's outlet centers provides a blueprint for retail property success in challenging times. By focusing on value-oriented experiences, maintaining strong brand partnerships, and creating appealing physical environments, outlet destinations have demonstrated their ability to attract consumers and drive sales even as broader retail faces headwinds. This success story offers valuable lessons for the entire retail property sector as it adapts to changing market conditions.