Following the opening of the highly anticipated Game of Thrones Studio Tour in Northern Ireland last month, The Boulverd outlet centre, owned by Lotus Property, has seen an increase in footfall traffic.
The Boulevard, Northern Ireland’s only designer outlet, is adjacent to the attraction’s Park and Ride facility, has reported an increase of +8.3% footfall visitors in the opening month and saw sales increase by +25.9% compared to the same period in 2020.
The Game of Thrones Studio Tour Park and Ride facility is situated on the wider Outlet Park. A month on from opening Average Transaction Value is up +37% compared to 2020, signalling a significantly greater spend from shoppers when on site.
Cementing the connection further, The Boulevard has joined partnership with the official Game of Thrones tour operator, offering exclusive Boulevard discounts to those purchasing Studio Tour tickets.
Chris Nelmes, Retail Director at The Boulevard said: “This attraction is a gamechanger for the Irish tourism sector and a phenomenal boost to The Boulevard.
“It’s fantastic to see that even after one month of opening, visitors who are parking up or returning after an exciting trip to Linen Mill Studios have successfully been enticed to come across to see what’s on offer at The Boulevard as part of their day’s activity.
He added: “We are certain that some of those visitors last month were new visitors to the scheme, especially those from across the border and we are confident that we will continue to welcome those from even further afield as confidence to travel opens up post pandemic.”
Kyle Christie, managing director at Orr’s Travel said: “We are delighted with the initial response and bookings for the fantastic Game of Thrones Studio Tour and hotel stay packages, since opening last month.
“The brand-new Studio Tour, located on the outskirts of Banbridge, is set to be one of Ireland’s most popular tourist attractions and is already bringing many new visitors to Northern Ireland, Banbridge and The Boulevard alike.
“In partnering with The Boulevard to offer guests exclusive discounts, we are all working together to ensure the best experience for visitors who want to enjoy some retail therapy whilst visiting the spectacular Game of Thrones Studio Tour.”
