The Highcross shopping and leisure destination in Leicester has seen trade soar during December as around 2.25 million shoppers flocked to the centre in search of Christmas gifts and a range of bargains at its annual sales.

Despite the big freeze hitting all parts of the UK over Christmas and gloomy predictions from the retail industry, Highcross' like-for-like sales in December increased by 3.5 per cent, and total sales by 7 per cent compared with 2009. The centre welcomed more than 90,000 shoppers on four occasions in the month and recorded its busiest Sunday ever on Boxing Day, with 65,000 visitors.

Michael Holland, marketing controller at Highcross, said: "December has beaten all expectations, particular considering the inclement weather that affected the ability of some customers to travel and shop.

"We believe that the spell of bad weather has resulted in our best ever start to the sales season, with more people receiving money and gift vouchers for Christmas. Highcross sold £150,000 worth of Gift Cards during December alone, a 150 per cent increase on last year.

"Although the VAT increase may have been on some shoppers' minds, some of our retailers have delayed passing on the cost. John Lewis has confirmed that the increase will not take effect until at least the end of January, whilst Debenhams is only incorporating the rise on new product lines that arrive in early Spring."

Throughout December, Highcross saw notable year-on-year increases in traditional Christmas gift favourites of jewellery and toys. However, footwear saw the biggest growth with sales increasing by more than 20 per cent - compared with 2009 - due to several new openings this year, including Footasylum and Jones Bootmaker.

Michael Holland, added: "We always look to bring in stores and brands that our customers want to see and in 2010 we've welcomed many new retailers who have proved incredibly popular.

"Our leasing team is currently in conversation with several leading brands, which we hope to accommodate at Highcross in 2011 giving even more choice to our customers."