40 and thriving: Metrocentre event bags 14% uplift in footfall

Metrocentre’s experiential Spring-Summer Fashion & Beauty Weekender has kickstarted the centre’s 40th birthday celebrations, delivering a 14% uplift in footfall year-on-year – and a 7% increase on the previous weekend.

The newly released figures, which coincide with the 40th anniversary of Metrocentre opening the doors to its first phase – Red Mall – on 28 April 1986, shine a light on the ever-evolving nature of the North East destination as it continually anticipates, monitors and adapts to changes in consumer preferences.

These include growing demand for events and experiences that take shopping from functional task to engaging, interactive activity, along with greater emphasis on sustainability, and a keen focus on valued-added options as cost-of-living pressures continue to bite.

Metrocentre’s Spring-Summer Fashion Weekender 2026 delivered on all fronts, including a packed line-up of beauty masterclasses, personalised consultations and runway action, hosted by TV personality AJ Odudu. Amongst the shows on offer was a circular fashion-themed collection from Daisy Chain, created from items donated by centre customers to help promote responsible approaches to clothing.

There was also a look to the ‘Future of Fashion’ by Newcastle College with around 60 students from across six curriculum areas working collaboratively in industry-relevant roles, including designers, models, stylists and backstage dressers, to produce and present original collections developed over the academic year.

All of which was free for regular shoppers and visitors alike to enjoy over the two-day event; the one exception being the VIP preview event on Friday 24 April, with proceeds from ticket sales helping raise over £2,000 to support The Daisy Chain Project’s ongoing work with neurodivergent individuals and families.

Helen Atkinson, Marketing Manager at Metrocentre, said: “What better way to launch our 40 birthday celebrations than with our biggest and best Fashion & Beauty Weekender yet. Not only did the event bring together customers and retailers in a really fun, interactive way, but it also raised much-needed funds for a local charity and provided students with the opportunity to deliver a professional-standard show in a real-world environment.

“It perfectly sums up the inclusive, inter-generational approach that has helped keep Metrocentre front of mind of hearts and minds for four decades now – and counting.” 

Libby Lagun, Head of Curriculum for Art and Design at Newcastle College said: “This was an excellent opportunity for our students to present their work as part of a major regional event, applying their skills in a live, public-facing environment.

“Our students worked across fashion design, fashion styling, hair and make-up to deliver a professional runway show, responding to industry expectations and collaborating across disciplines to produce work to deadline.

“Experiences like this are essential in preparing students for careers in the creative industries, giving them the confidence and practical understanding needed to succeed in a competitive sector.”