Sale set for 10% footfall boost as independent traders gear up for festive season
Sale is welcoming 50,000 weekly visitors and expects a 10 per cent rise in footfall by the end of the year, when compared with 2024.
The town’s gaining greater popularity as an all-day destination hang-out, an alternative to Manchester city centre and others.
Traders in and around Stanley Square say a growing population of young families, coupled with a range of ‘symbiotic’ amenities and attractions have contributed to the town’s glow-up.
Business property manager Altered Space reports events such as the Makers’ Market, Twilight Market and community celebrations are attracting up to 10,000 visitors per day, when combined with initiatives such as a free monthly tea dance for older people. Great Bee Network transport links and a £1m upgrade to the town’s multi-storey car park, providing 220 extra-wide spaces, plus a thriving office scene, are also helping the success of Sale.
Cllr Liz Patel, Trafford Council’s Executive Member for Economy and Regeneration, said: “The transformation of Sale is a real success story in our borough and testament to the business community who work together, tirelessly, to give people countless good reasons to live, work and visit here.
“We're proud of the success of all four Trafford towns – Sale, Altrincham, Stretford and Urmston – and urge local people support our high streets and shop local for Christmas gifts."
Tony Mundin, owner of the Northern Light Cinema on Stanley Square, said: “It’s a buzzing business community. The offerings complement each other – you can shop, eat, have a beauty treatment and come to the cinema. It’s truly symbiotic.”
Rob Benson, owner of B&V Trading Co., (pictured above left) said: "What makes Sale so special is the number of independent retailers together in a small area, supported by the big chains. So, you can pop into Boots or Aldi for essentials but also come and browse for something different.”
Beth Handforth (pictured above right) of gift shop Idaho on Stanley Square said: "We've been here for just under four years and we have seen the area change completely to become a lively destination, a place to hang out, in the day and into the evening. People will come and spend the day here."
