Lawrence Allen Celebrates A Decade At Chester's Forum Shopping Centre

June 27, 2011 - PRLog -- CHESTER’s Forum Shopping Centre manager Lawrence Allen is celebrating the tenth anniversary of his appointment to take charge of the day-to-day running of the city’s popular Northgate retail development.

The Manchester-born retail management expert arrived in Chester in 2001 after a career spanning two decades during which he held posts at major shopping centres including the Arndale in Manchester and at Shrewsbury.

“It’s incredible to think I’ve been here for a decade however it is also extremely satisfying to see that the Forum, which has a special place in the hearts of Chester folk, is still trading well despite the toughest economic climate for years,” said Lawrence who has been credited with putting the centre firmly on the Cheshire map.

“In the early days there were suggestions that the Forum was regarded as somehow second rate. But today there is no doubt that this centre is recognised as the premier destination for shoppers who are looking for value for money.

“As well as offering the shopping public a wide selection of outlets from T.J. Hughes to Claire’s Accessories and from the Co-operative Supermarket to Riley’s Health Shop we also do our best to make a visit here a family friendly occasion.

“That’s why visitors may see a variety of events in progress through the school holidays and that is also why we get fully involved with all of the fun of Chester’s Christmas celebrations.”

Lawrence is not planning a formal celebration in recognition of achieving his tenth year at the Forum but expects to raise a glass with close friends and family.

“There have been many changes and most for the good,” added Lawrence who lives in North Shropshire. “Our visitor numbers remain very healthy and thanks to the efforts of people like Bob Lelliott, manager of Chester Against Business Crimes, the city centre is a much safer and friendlier environment than when I first arrived.

“In fact the city management team have been very supporting over the years and they fully recognise the importance of the city’s retail offering.””

And Lawrence is particularly proud of the celebrity “support” he has received during his ten years at the Forum.

“I’ve been astonished at the big names that have appeared in the Forum over the years,” he explained. “And I don’t mean as part of PR stunts. In fact we’ve been just as surprised by their arrival as the shopping public.

“For instance Sir Paul McCartney and his then wife Heather Mills turned up unannounced in 2003 and bought some pink oriental lilies and a red freesia from our flower stall. We later had a visit from ex East Enders star Patsy Palmer, also known as Bianca.

“Other celebrity surprise visitors have included Ricky Tomlinson, BNP chief Nick Griffin and Liverpool and Rangers football legend Graham Souness. So I’m obviously not alone in being convinced that the Forum is a very special place.”

For further information click onto: www.forumshopping.co.uk