Open up to shopping in Oldham

Reporter: Lewis Jones
Date published: 27 October 2011


We must remain positive — store boss
A RALLYING call has been issued for the shoppers of Oldham to remain loyal to the town centre.

The newly-appointed store manager of Debenhams has launched the “Together We Can” campaign in a bid to boost custom.

Mark Carson (26) says although roadworks and store closures, such as TJ Hughes, may put some shoppers off coming to the town centre, we should all remain positive.

He added: “Trading has been more challenging.

“However, my team remembers the days when the Oldham store was one of the most successful in the company and the town centre was bustling.

“We’re trying our utmost, and gradually succeeding, to improve every aspect and make shopping here more appealing to customers travelling from further afield.

“We are, without doubt, up for the challenge!

“This Debenhams store has such a loyal base of customers and we owe it to them to be the best we can be.

“We’re also saying to people ‘We’re still here! Are you?’, meaning we need that support.”

In only eight weeks, Mark has already arranged meetings with council representatives and town-centre leaders in a bid to break down perceived obstacles.

He admits roadworks have led people to think it is difficult to get into the town centre and welcomed the move to make parking on council land free for the first three hours every Saturday.

The manager, who also worked as a project manager for the modernisation of the Manchester Market Street store, is in contact with other retailers to ensure top-notch standards in the town centre.

Speaking as the head of the Spindles’ anchor retailer, he expressed dismay that other big high-street names were not setting up shop in the town.

He admitted he would welcome the arrival of a store such as Marks & Spencer.

Debenhams is determined to put on positive front and has launched new fashion ranges in the store and improved their health and beauty department.

The store, which employs 212 staff, has also launched a recruitment drive for Christmas, taking on 47 extra staff over the festive period.

Mark added: “There are some fantastic people in Oldham and brilliant retailers that are currently not employed.

“We’re putting a call out to everyone, especially ex-staff members from TJ Hughes, to get in touch.

“I want people to speak to me when they see me on the shop floor and let us know how we can be better, bigger and help provide a brighter future for Oldham.”


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