Dundee city centre gets boost from 'Frasers effect' after £5m Overgate investment

Dundee has experienced a much-needed boost in city centre footfall since the opening of the flagship Frasers store last year.

The £5 million store opened in June last year in the city’s Overgate Shopping Centre and was hailed as a “transformative” moment for the city centre.

New figures have shown that the store has boosted footfall in the Overgate by 7% over the 12 months since it opened, while sales have risen by 26%.

The phenomenon has even been dubbed the “Frasers effect”.

Inside the Frasers flagship store in Dundee. Frasers Group

The Frasers Group acquired Overgate in March 2023 and has since spearheaded a retail regeneration with the openings of Flannels, Clarks, Mango and Castore.

The Overgate is now at 90% occupancy, and this is likely to increase further when Frasers opens its new Everlast concept gym in 2027.

Malcolm Angus, centre manager, said: “The opening of Frasers has been a breath of fresh air for the centre and reflects Frasers Group’s continued investment in the high street. In the first year of opening footfall has increased 7% and the centre looks and feels busier walking around.

“Sales have been strong and Frasers has found a sweet spot in the market when it comes to the fashion and sportswear brands people desire.

The Overgate centre is now at 90% occupancy. Frasers Group

“Its arrival has been good for attracting new retailers to open in Overgate – but also for existing tenants too, many of whom have undertaken store extensions and refurbishments.

“The centre now has a strong retail mix and demand for units is high.”

Dundee City Council leader, Mark Flynn added: “I am impressed by the boost to the local economy that has been provided by Overgate in the last year through increased footfall and sales.

“The council and its partners are working hard to make Dundee city centre an attractive place to visit and to spend time in. This is not a short-term task, as our City Centre Strategic Investment Plan recognises with its ambitious 30-year goals.”