Out Of Town Shopping; Still Popular?

With so many shops crammed onto the high street these days, it is often quite refreshing to do some out of town shopping and maybe pick up a few bargains in the process.

It is logical to understand that out of town shopping will mean retailers have cheaper rates to pay for their premises. In a city, for example, shop area space and a great location can be limited, so that's when some retailers decide to open up out of town and take advantage of the benefits.

But what are the benefits for consumers? Well, it is an interesting question. Some people like the change of scenery; some like the fact there are a number of stores all under one roof or in a large outdoor shopping complex. There's also the benefit of free parking.

Naturally very popular with women, it is estimated that fashion stores account for 50% to 60% of out-of-town retail floor space. But will this last forever? My theory is no.

With the credit crunch hitting us hard, travelling to a shopping centre out of town is not a number one priority for many. Saving on spiralling petrol costs is of paramount importance these days for so many of us. Julia Finch, City Editor of the Guardian, recently researched the lack of interest in out of town shopping at the moment.

One benefit in the decline of out of town shopping is that it will help cut down on the number of people getting into their cars and using fuel, therefore being 'greener', which environmentalists will be pleased with. The decline in out of town shopping is naturally meaning that many more people are turning to shopping online. Shopping online can be done from the comfort of your armchair.

If shopping online doesn't appeal to you and you still want to get out there and share your love of shopping with a large shopping centre, then make sure you visit these out of town shopping centres:

• Bluewater, Kent
  
• Trafford Centre, Manchester
  
• Metro Centre, Gateshead
  
• Meadowhall, Sheffield
  
• Castle Meadows Retail Park, Nottingham
  
• East Midlands Designer Outlet, Mansfield
  
• McArthur Glen Designer Outlet, York
  
• Lakeside, Essex