Retailers pleased to be part of complex

Press, 5 May 1986, Page 16

Retailers pleased to be part of complex

The retailers of Linwood City are excited about moving into Christchurch’s newest shopping mall. Some who have had experience in other malls are convinced of the advantages to both shoppers and retailers of being in a mall. Other shop-owners, who have been in Linwood for some time, are pleased to be moving to be part of Linwood City. “I have worked in a large mall before and the shopping is much more exciting,” said the owner of Anita’s Handbags, Mrs Gloria Melrose. She has had her shop in Linwood for the past four years. The owner of Linwood City Pharmacy, Mr Clyde Browne, has been in Linwood for the past 23 years and has been waiting for a long time to become part of Linwood City. As well as some local retailers shifting to the mall, well-known chain stores in fashion clothing, household goods and appliances will also be at the mall. The biggest Supervalue supermarket in the South Island will be at Linwood City. This new supermarket uses the latest in equipment and technology, the 15 checkouts all use scanners. A bakery, and large fresh produce,

meat and fish sections are features of the supermarket. The frozen foods section is also extremely large, and the gourmet and delicatessen section is extensive. Being part of a new complex has given retailers the opportunity to start from scratch with new decor and to lay out their shops in a new and exciting way. Many retailers have used stylish new colours and re-designed their shops. Linwood City Booksellers has opted for dark greens as part of its colour scheme, and Glassons has gone for selected wall-to-wall mirroring. The over-all manager of Kennedy’s, Mr Roy Turner, said the sales area was designed so that the retailer was always out in the shop, accessible to the customer. “We also have a semi-private area, where clients can select their rings,” he said. While tripping between the various shops and boutiques, shoppers should feel quite relaxed. There are places to sit and the malls are very wide and high, with light streaming in through the windows. The effect is restful and spacious.