Harlequin Watford, Hertfordshire’s leading retail and leisure destination, is celebrating a landmark performance in 2025, achieving its highest ever annual footfall and reinforcing its position as a vibrant retail hub for brands that mean business.
Building on the momentum established in 2024, Harlequin delivered a further year-on-year increase in footfall over the last 12 months, setting a new all-time high for the centre with a total figure of 17.2m for the year.
This performance materially outpaced the wider market. British Retail Consortium data shows UK shopping centre footfall declined by 5.1% year-on-year in December 2025, while Harlequin Watford achieved growth of +1.6% over the same period, reinforcing the centre’s appeal and ability to capture market share.
This strong performance has been driven by Harlequin’s combination of over 130 leading retail brands with an eclectic mix of cafes, bars, restaurants and leisure. Supported by sustained investment and a transformational leasing plan, the centre welcomed a range of new brands in 2025 including an upsize of JD, White Stuff, Millie Moo and The Massage Company.
Footfall growth was also galvanised through 2025 by an innovative programme of free, family-focused events delivered across key seasonal moments, these activations at peak trading periods helped to build buzz and boost brand performance.
Coupled with this is the successful re-introduction of the centre’s original and much-loved Harlequin name, which has further strengthened its identity and resonance with the local community.
Already on course to sustain its strong trajectory, Harlequin Watford has announced even more exciting brands for 2026, including aspirational beauty brand Space NK, dining favourite Chop Wok Express, and development of the leisure offering for customers, creating more reasons for visitors to stay longer.
Simon Plumb, centre director at Harlequin Watford, commented: “2025 was a defining year for Harlequin Watford – it’s a thrill to be announcing the highest footfall in our history. This achievement not only demonstrates the quality of our brand mix but also our deep connection with the local community. Retail brands continue to invest and grow with us, while our events and placemaking initiatives are clearly resonating with guests. With more standout brand names joining us, we are proving yet again that Harlequin Watford is a desirable destination for brands and guests.”
