Saskatoon’s Midtown Mall sees record sales and uptick in foot traffic

WATCH: Sales at Saskatoon Midtown are up 11 per cent compared to last September with 4.3 million visitors passing through each year.

Despite ongoing challenges in traditional retail, one Saskatoon mall is reporting a rise in foot traffic and record-breaking sales.

Midtown Mall says sales are up 11 per cent compared to last September. Foot traffic has also increased by nearly four per cent, with 4.3 million visitors over the past year.

General manager Tara Faris says the growth is due in part to the arrival of three new stores, along with other retailers renovating and relocating within the mall.

More retailers are set to open soon, including Unique Bunny, which specializes in Korean and Japanese skincare, and Ukraine Pantry.

“Any time we welcome a new first-to-market tenant, there’s always lots of excitement,” Faris said in an interview with CTV News on Wednesday.

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She adds the closure of Hudson’s Bay earlier this year has not had a major impact on the mall’s overall performance.

“I think we’re holding steady on our own. Certainly, the Bay had its own customer base and they will be missed, but we continue to see a positive trend,” she said.

Faris says she cannot comment on what might replace the former Hudson’s Bay space but confirms plans are in the works.

Some Saskatoon residents told CTV News what they would like to see fill the vacant space.

“A grocery store or some sort of food store,” said Kim King. “Something with semi-prepared foods for people who work downtown so they could shop during lunch or quickly after work.”

“More stores where you can sit and have a coffee, or activities,” said Jelisa Heidel.

While the future of the old Hudson’s Bay location remains uncertain, Faris says the mall’s overall sales and visitor numbers are expected to keep climbing through the holiday shopping season.