Retail is a major industry in the UK employing the highest number of people (11% of all workers) within the private sector as well as generating an annual turnover of £260 billion. The performance of the sector is also used as a barometer for the general health of the economy as consumer spending reflects the public's level of disposable income and their overall confidence in the economy.  Figures from the Scottish Retail Consortium (SRC), the retail trade association in Scotland, show that 1 in 10 of Scotland's workforce is employed in retail (252,000) in 28,700 outlets. In 2002, the turnover was estimated at around £19 billion, which indicates that consumer spending per head is at similar levels in Scotland to the rest of the UK.
Due to its large selection of retail outlets and its central location, West Lothian is a key shopping destination that attracts visitors from Edinburgh, Glasgow and the rest of central Scotland. Retail is the third largest private sector employer in West Lothian and currently employs approximately 7500 people (11% of the local workforce) with the main employers being food retailers. The major shopping attractions in the area are the Almondvale Centre and the adjacent McArthurGlen Designer Centre, where large UK retailers such as Next, Marks & Spencer and Asda Wal*mart are located. The headquarters of national retail chains, such as Schuh and USC, can also be found in West Lothian. Plans have also recently been approved for a £90 million extension to the current Almondvale Centre, which will double its current size and effectively link it up with the neighbouring MacArthur Glen. This will create the largest shopping complex in Scotland and rival the Metro Centre in Gateshead, which is currently the biggest shopping centre in Europe. Away from the main shopping centres, towns such as Linlithgow and Bathgate boast many traditional, independently owned shops offering variety, local flavour and a personal touch. Top Five Retail Employers | Ranking | Company | Description | | 1 | Asda Wal*mart | Superstore | | 2 | Morrisons | Supermarket | | 3 | Tesco | Supermarket | | 4 | Scotmid | Groceries and Supermarket | | 5 | Sainsbury | Superstore | Check out the latest facts and figures about retailing in West Lothian by downloading our 2005 Retail Briefing Paper.
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Further Information
More information is available on the website about Relocation Support, Business
Property, Funding Sources, Getting to West Lothian and Quality of Life.We also have a variety of Case Studies and information on Recently Relocated Firms. If you are considering West Lothian as a location for your organisation we will be happy to meet you to understand and discuss your plans, contact Alice Sinnet on:
Telephone: 01506 777924 or Email: alice.sinnet@westlothian.gov.uk
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