Wholesale, Retail and Leisure services
The story so far...
Wholesale, retail and leisure companies form one of Basingstoke’s largest sector, both in terms of revenue and GVA generated but also for the amount of individuals employed within this sector.
The economic performance of this sector stands exceptionally high within the borough, seeing a 2022 GVA figure of £1.2billion which works out to be 15% of the borough's total economy. The importance of this sector is reinforced by employment figures, as it is estimated that 15,000 people are employed by the companies that populate this sector.
Retail opportunities within Basingstoke are highlighted by the 1.1 million square feet shopping centre known as Festival Place which is home to approximately 140 stores. Adjacent to Festival Place is The Malls which is a 300,000 square feet mixed-use shopping centre and boasts a range of international brands. Basingstoke Leisure Park sits on a 60-acre plot and features activities ranging from an indoor skydiving centre to a golf centre.
The borough’s strategic position in north Hampshire creates a magnet for skilled talent. With quick rail links to London and nearby cities and six universities only a short distance away, businesses have a rich talent pool to tap into.
Where are we now?
- 2,753 companies in the sector based in the borough (Q2, 2022)
- 15,000 jobs (2022)
- 17% borough workers are employed in the sector
- GVA for wholesale is £655 million and retail £518 million (2022)
Business opportunities
The borough has large amounts of retail, leisure-focused and industrial space available that is ready to be utilised for a variety of different audiences. Development and investment opportunities are available in Basingstoke town centre and Basingstoke Leisure Park.
Leisure facilities
Plans for a new water and leisure complex to replace the Aquadrome are currently being
firmed up by Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council, with a formal search for a partner to
deliver it now under way.
An ‘in-principle’ deal has been agreed for Great Wolf Resorts to build an indoor water park
resort next to the leisure park, subject to getting planning permission. The proposed resort
could feature a 500-bedroom hotel, an indoor water park, conference facilities, and leisure.
“We know how important Festival Place is to the Basingstoke community. We sit at the heart of the town centre, not just providing essential shopping for people, but also leisure and community activities. We are hugely proud to be such a prominent part of Basingstoke and to be able to support the community where we can, whether that’s helping food banks, schools, colleges and charities that are so vital to our town.”
Sian Fisher, Festival Place
How we can help
The Economic Development team can save your business time, money and effort by utilising our expert knowledge of the area. We can help you with:
- your property search
- recruitment and training
- making introductions to the business community
- connecting your business to growth support
- co-ordinating with our internal teams to make your move as smooth as possible
- promotion following your move to Basingstoke.
Get in touch via business@lovebasingstoke.co.uk
