Retail

The retail sector in each of the market towns is served by representative bodies such as the Penrith Chamber of Trade and Commerce, Penrith Business Improvement District; Appleby Chamber of Trade, Alston Moor Business Association . The Council supports these organisations through membership and regular liason. In addition, the Council employs two town centre officers delivering markets and promotional activity to increase footfall, widen brand awareness and improve reputation leading to brand loyalty.

Commercial investment opportunities are significant. Penrith has a shopping population catchment of 80,000 increased significantly during the tourist season because it operates as a 'gateway' town to the Lake District at junction 40 Penrith. Recent investments for the town include a new 50,000 sq ft Sainsburys supermarket and town centre redevelopment with a Premier Inn at New Squares and B&Q at Castle Retail Park .

The economic strategy has identified events as a means of increasing the reputation of market towns. Eden District Council financially supports 'signature events' in Penrith such as Eden Food and Farming Festival, Winter Droving and Halloween which have locals and visitors lining the streets of Penrith. Community Festivals such as Lions May Day are also supported in various ways throughout the District including use of the Council's Visit Eden web site.

Please contact us for more information if you are looking for a retail investment opportunity.