'It set the standard for retail in Leeds': Shopping centre marks 10th anniversary in the city

A Leeds shopping centre is celebrating its 10th anniversary in the city.

Victoria Gate, which forms part of Victoria Leeds alongside the Grade II-listed Victoria Quarter, opened in October 2016 following a £165m development.

The shopping centre is home to the region's only John Lewis store and has attracted more than 135 million visits since opening.

Victoria Gate's owner, Redical, said it had leased 70,400 sq ft of previously vacant space since acquiring Victoria Leeds, reducing the vacancy rate from around 15% to less than 5%.

More than 35 brands have opened at the destination, including Pour Moi, Aesop, APM Monaco, Lisa Angel, AS Colour and Randox.

Wax London, Missoma, Monica Vinader, Byredo and Le Labo have also opened their first stores outside London at Victoria Leeds.

ARNE is due to open its third permanent UK store at Victoria Leeds later this year.

James Edmondson, Asset Manager at Redical, said “Victoria Gate set a new standard for retail in the North when it opened ten years ago, and that ambition remains at the heart of how Redical manages Victoria Leeds today.

“When we acquired the destination, around 15% of the floorspace was vacant, compared to less than 5% today.

“That turnaround is the result of hands-on, intelligent asset management and a leasing strategy built on securing the right brands, in the right space, to satisfy the needs and wants of a loyal and affluent customer base.

“As we look ahead to the next decade, our focus is on continuing to evolve the offer and cementing Victoria Leeds’ position as a prime, best-in-class destination.”