fashion
The Summer may be nearing an end and funds running low but there is still a cure for that shopping bug – outlet shopping.
Thousands are us are turning to the UK's growing number of factory outlets for a retail therapy hit. Female First look at exactly what all the fuss is about.
The retail phenomenon of outlet shopping began inthe early 90’s and was originally imported from the United States where there are currently more than 250 such centres. The UK’s first outlet centre was Clarks Village in Somerset, which opened its doors in 1993, and the concept is now common across the country and Europe.
Modern outlet shopping provides the eager bargain hunter with an experience far-removed from the old fashioned 'pile them high, sell them cheap' factory warehouses, selling mostly defective goods and seconds.
Research shows that more than 28% of people in the UK consider shopping to be a leisure pursuit, and outlets now strive to offer visitors a complete day out, with great bargains, entertainment and food all to be found in one place.
The out-of-town locations mean most outlets are easily accessible, and are a great way to avoid sky high parking prices and town centre traffic.
And it’s not just obscure, unfavoured or old fashioned brands that take up space in the UK’s outlets. Luxury and designer brands are increasingly opting to open outlet stores, with international names like Tommy Hilfiger, Burberry, Coast and Calvin Klein to be found at some outlet centres and with discounts of up to 60% off the recommended retail price designer classics can be snapped up for a fraction of the normal cost.
And if you’re normally a fan of the high street, favourites such as Marks and Spencer, Next, Clarks, Monsoon and Oasis can also be found alongside their designer neighbours, offering great savings on clothes, accessories and homeware.
With celebrities including Liz Hurley, Louise Redknapp, Jordan and even Queen of Style Victoria Beckham all known to visit outlets it’s clear that everyone is following this growing shopping trend.
When the going gets tough, the tough go outlet shopping – a perfect way to spend a day indulging in designer shopping fantasies and high street fashion without angering your bank manager. Here's a run down of some of the UK's most popular outlets:
Clarks Village in Street is set an attractive village surrounding offers some of the best outlet shopping in the South West, attracting around 3.5 million visitors a year. Visitors can enjoy up to 60% off RRP all year round in stores including Marks & Spencer Outlet, Next Clearance, Monsoon, Clarks, Coast, Monsoon, Adidas, Calvin Klein, Whistles and Fat Face.
Atlantic Village in Bideford boasts over 35 retail outlet shops under one roof including Cadbury, Jacques Vert, Select and Cotton Traders all offering up to 50% off rrp. Sporty types can head to Salt Rock before taking to the waves on the nearby North Devon coast.
Junction 32, Castleford, West Yorkshire, located next to Xscape, is a superb shopping destination.offering up to 60% off everyday in over 90 stores including Next Clearance, Nike Factory Store, Marks & Spencer Outlet, Gap, Bench, Austin Reed, Mango and Oasis.
Freeport Braintree in Essex, has over 80 stores and is one of the UK’s premier outlet villages with designer brands including Tommy Hilfiger, Burberry, Karen Millen and Ted Baker as well as high street brands like Marks & Spencer Outlet, Next Clearance, Nike Facotry Store, offering up to 60% off rrp everyday.
Freeport Talke in Stoke on Trent is an indoor shopping mall with over 40 stores offering up to 60 % off rrp including The Designer Room, Mexx, Bags Etc, Trespass, and Thorntons.
Lakeside Village in Doncaster is Yorkshire’s first purpose-build outlet shopping village offering up to 60% off everyday. It’s home to over 45 shops including Marks & Spencer Outlet, Clarks, Lillywhites and Next Clearance.
Freeport Fleetwood in Lancashire has undergone recent major redevelopment improving its landscaping and retailer offer . Set by a marina, its offers up to 60 % off everyday and features stores such as Next Clearance, Marks & Spencer Outlet, Wrangler, Designer Room, and Reebok.
Astle Outlet Park in West Bromwich is the UK’s first in-town outlet park and offers savings on brands including Marks & Spencer Outlet, Nike Factory Store and Next Clearance.
Freeport Hornsea, near Hull, is a charming outlet village set in beautiful landscaped surroundings The Village is home to over 35 stores offering up to 60% off rrp on famous name brands including Laura Ashley, Tog 24, Waterford Wedgwood and Thorntons.