Shopping in Manchester

Manchester is the main shopping centre for the North West. The prime retailing area is based around the pedestrianised Market Street and one of Europe’s largest shopping malls, the Arndale Centre. Most major ‘chain stores’ are located here. In a recent study, Manchester was found to be the UK’s second most popular location for retailers outside London; this is confirmed by the success of the area around Deansgate, King Street, St Ann’s Square and the Victorian Barton Arcade, which have brought in top names in high fashion such as Armani, Boss, Vidal Sassoon, Westwood and DKNY. City Centre shopping facilities have been targeted for environmental improvements, and the growth of complimentary businesses, such as café bars, has further increased attractiveness for shoppers.
Consequently, smaller scale and specialist retail areas around the core are also flourishing, such as the southern end of Deansgate and Oldham Street/Tib Street. There is a good choice, however, of other places to shop. Three large retail parks lie just outside the city centre, which focus on the sale of bulky goods such as electrical appliances and toys. Manchester also supports 15 district shopping centres, and 21 local centres (with 25 or more shops), which put essential – and sometimes specialist – shops within easy reach of all.

Outside of the City Centre is the enormous Trafford Centre, opened in September 1998, and within easy access of Manchester by car along the M602 and the M60 motorways – about 15 minutes drive. This has all shopping facilities as well as a considerable range of leisure activities all under one roof, with parking for more than 10,000 vehicles.

Manchester Shops Listed alphabetically: