What: A new report has shown that London’s West End is recovering slowly as it nears closer to a turnover of 10 billion pounds by 2025 with year-to-date sales having gone up 56% compared to 2021.

Why it is important: Department stores were among the most successful trading categories of 2022 and sales are expected to amplify as tax-free shopping returns to the UK, attracting more international visitors.

The 2022 turnover for London’s West End was GBP 8 billion, with health and beauty, electrical goods, and department stores being among the most successful trading categories.

The overall volume of international visitors is expected to have fully recovered to pre-COVID-19 levels by mid-2023 to early 2024. With the restoration of tax-free shopping, experts are optimistic as the Treasury is estimated to benefit GBP 350 million a year, with 1.6 million visitors spending an extra 2.1 billion pounds.

London’s West End on track to 10 billion pounds by 2025