Merry Hill Shopping Centre has had a standout year in 2025, defying national trends with a remarkable 5.4% increase in footfall compared to 2024. This growth comes in contrast to the British Retail Consortium’s report, which noted a decrease in shopping centre footfall nationwide. Merry Hill has not only weathered the storm but flourished, establishing itself as a regional favourite for shoppers, particularly during the crucial Christmas shopping period.
The centre’s performance is attributed to several factors, with the arrival of 21 new brands and a significant £20 million investment by 22 existing brands into their stores. These investments have helped position Merry Hill as a diverse destination offering a wide range of stores, eateries, and leisure activities that attract both new and returning visitors throughout the year.
New Openings and Expansions Fuel Merry Hill’s Success
Merry Hill’s footfall increase is largely driven by the introduction of exciting new brands. Among the new arrivals in 2025 are popular names like Cotswold Outdoor, Flying Tiger, Lovisa, B&Q, and Bensons for Beds. In addition to these new retail stores, a variety of new eateries also opened, such as Burger & Sauce, Heavenly Desserts, Slim Chickens, Wendy’s, and Toledo Lounge. This diverse mix of food and shopping options has ensured that visitors have plenty of reasons to keep coming back.
Notably, M&S also reinvested in its Merry Hill store, undergoing a complete transformation to provide a full food, home, fashion, and beauty offering all under one roof. The revamped store also now includes a new coffee shop to enhance the shopping experience. Other brands like Hotel Chocolat, EE, and Goldsmiths have also opened new concept stores, contributing to the overall vibrancy and appeal of the shopping centre.
New Attractions and Experiences Set to Enhance Merry Hill’s Popularity
In addition to the new stores, Merry Hill is further enhancing its offering with the opening of Carnival Golf & Games, an entertainment attraction set to debut in early 2026. This new venue will be located near Nando’s and Slim Chickens, completing the transformation of the former Debenhams unit alongside other new tenants like Harvey Norman and XF Gym. With such diverse entertainment and shopping options, Merry Hill has become not just a place to shop, but a destination for entertainment.
Jonathan Poole, the Centre Manager of Merry Hill, expressed excitement about the centre’s growth and future plans: “2025 was a landmark year for Merry Hill, with the completion of the award-winning leisure quarter, the launch of 21 new brands, and a programme of UK-first events contributing to very strong footfall growth throughout the year.”
A Bright Future Ahead for Merry Hill
Looking ahead to 2026, Merry Hill is set to continue its momentum with more exciting developments and new offerings. Carnival Golf & Games is just the start, with further announcements expected in the near future. As Merry Hill continues to expand its range of entertainment, shopping, and dining options, it is poised to remain a top destination for shoppers and visitors from across the region.
