POST-LOCKDOWN shopping habits are offering a fascinating insight into what many people's "new normal" is starting to look like.

Clarks Village in Street reports shoppers are revelling in the return to in-person shopping, revealing the most popular post-lockdown purchases.

Indicating people are hoping to enjoy more of the great outdoors, along with planning for staycations this year, there has been a surge in demand for items such as walking boots, body boards, outdoor shoes and beachwear.

With eating out being off limits for so long, people have been upgrading their own cooking facilities reflected in a rise in kitchenware sales.

Selfcare is a buzzword right now and certain stores have seen a spike in sales for shoes, skincare products and make-up on the back of it.

Usurprisingly, handwash and handcream have also been popupular purchases.

Centre Director at Clarks Village,Chris Davis, said: “Shoppers are the heart of Clarks Village and it has been fantastic to see their return and just how excited they are to be back with us.

“Our retailers have seen some really interesting trends post lockdown, reflecting people’s lifestyle changes over the past year – there is a real desire from all guests to experience in-person shopping again and a clear inclination among shoppers to treat themselves, family and friends.

“Childrenswear has also proved popular, with grandparents buying gifts for grandchildren they haven’t seen in a while, and ‘self-care shopping’ such as skincare products has also risen.

“For some, it’s the chance to browse and stock up for future events and staycations while others simply want to treat themselves after a difficult year.

“What’s clear is that being able to walk around, try on and get a feel for products along with the personalised in-store experience just cannot be matched.

"We look forward to continuing to give shoppers a warm and safe welcome back to Clarks Village across the summer, whether they’re shopping for something specific or just want to embrace the experience of shopping once more.”

Interestingly, Clarks Village brands found shopper habits have evolved during the first few weeks of re-opening. Several report shoppers are visiting on different days to avoid peak times and are now more likely to spend longer browsing in store, enjoying the experience.

Six new stores have opened at Clarks Village since last summer including clothing company Lazy Jacks, outdoor clothing and equipment retailer Craghoppers, The Perfume Shop, and most recently, independent Summerhouse Aromatherapy which opened at the end of May.

They join a line-up of more than 90 designer brands and high-street names offering discounts of up to 60 percent.

For more information, visit www.clarksvillage.co.uk