London & Partners, the capital’s official promotional organisation, is delighted to announce London has topped the first-ever Globe Shopper City Index – Europe produced by the EIU and sponsored by shopping and spending experts Global Blue.
London beat stiff competition from Paris, Barcelona and Madrid to be ranked as the best European city for shopping in the Globe Shopper City Index – Europe, which was researched and compiled by the Economist Intelligence Unit. International globe shoppers – that is tourists whose travel choices are heavily motivated by shopping opportunities – are estimated to be worth £3billion to the London economy.
Dame Judith Mayhew Jonas, Chairman, London & Partners, who collected the award at a ceremony yesterday(Wednesday 16 November 2011) commented: “We are delighted that London has been recognised as the premier shopping capital of Europe. This research acknowledges that London’s unique and huge mix of retail is second to none ranging from luxury to high street, and boutique to bargain stores. These can all be found throughout London which is constantly evolving and has much to offer every visitor.”
Beating over 33 other European Cities, London was ranked first by the Globe Shopper City Index – Europe according to 38 criteria grouped into five categories: shops, affordability, convenience, hotels and transport, and culture and climate. This demonstrates why London has seen a massive boom in international tax free shopping this year alone, up 30% on 2010.
