A YEAR on from the collapse of the Woolworths retail chain, almost 80% of its former north- west outlets are either occupied or about to be.

That’s according to a study by CB Richard Ellis (CBRE) which shows take-up of former Woolworths stores across the region now stands at 79%.

Of the 70-plus stores in the region, more than three-quarters have either been let or are under offer, compared with 60% a few months ago.

Discount stores, grocers and fashion operators account for the majority of new occupiers.

Combined, they account forŠ over 80% of the total take-up. Discount retailers, such as B&M Bargains, 99p stores and Poundland account for the greatest proportion of acquired stores (55% of the total), followed by grocery outlets, including Iceland and Tesco, (17%) and fashion operators such as Ethel Austin and Peacocks (17%).

Pippa Page, from the North West retail team at CBRE, said:Š”A year ago, the collapse of Woolworths came at a very difficult time for retailers who were feeling the full force of the harsh economic conditions.Š

“Rather than stores remaining dormant, the market was quick to react to the fantastic opportunity to acquire prime retail locations in high streets and town centres across the UK. A lot of the prime sites were cherry picked in the first few weeks after Woolworths went into administration, although surprisingly names such as Iceland, B&M Bargains, Home Bargains and 99p stores were the first to capitalise on the opportunity.

“Take-up of Woolworths stores across the North-West has been strong, along with the North-East and Ireland.

“Whether or not branches have been acquired appears to be largely due to the relative strength of the retail destination, the pitch and size of individual unit, and individual retailer requirements, rather than the geographical location.”