THE director of a popular retail village in Somerset has responded to a new report announcing it has contributed more than £30 million to the local economy.
According to a new report from Landsec, the retail destination in Street generated £30,514,604 and supported 642 jobs in 2025.
In 2025 Clarks Village also helped 93 people move closer to employment through initiatives such as employability partnerships and practical work placements.
Mike Jones, centre director at Clarks Village, said: "Retail destinations are part of the fabric of the communities they serve.
"They help local businesses grow, create employment opportunities and provide places where people can come together, connect and spend time.
"The findings published today demonstrate the important contribution Clarks Village continues to make to Somerset.
"By investing in the destination, supporting employment, working with community partners and operating more sustainably, we’re helping businesses and communities thrive.
"In turn, that attracts further investment, supports long-term growth and creates lasting value for the local area."
The outlet shopping centre delivered £132,488.46 in social value in 2025 through schemes such as bursaries, community grants, volunteering, and partnerships.
A spokesperson for Clarks Village said this investment reflects its aim to build stronger neighbourhoods while supporting the economy.
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The spokesperson added sustainability remains a 'key focus' for Clarks Village, which currently uses 100 per cent renewable electricity, recycles 79 per cent of on-site waste, and sends zero waste to landfill.
Environmental initiatives taken in 2025 include the planting of more than 600 native shrubs and plants to create wildlife-friendly hedges and a wildflower meadow.
The centre also installed three beehives to help support pollinators.
Clarks Village first opened in 1993 as the UK’s original outlet shopping centre.
Today, it hosts over 90 brands across fashion, homeware, beauty, and lifestyle, with discounts of up to 60 per cent off the recommended retail price.
Recent changes include the addition of Crocs and Christy stores, alongside a newly refurbished Joules.
Superdry and Prezzo have also been updated, joining long-time names such as Tommy Hilfiger, Wagamama, Sweaty Betty, and Bill’s.
Beyond shopping, Clarks Village is promoted as a full-day visitor destination, offering wide-paved malls, landscaped gardens, an adventure playground, and late-night dining options.
Events are a regular feature, with the dog-friendly Pawsome Pooch weekend scheduled for September.
As part of its wider community commitment, Clarks Village works with partners such as Ahead Partnership and champions local talent through its ‘Made in Somerset’ campaign.
It also supports inclusivity and opportunities for people across the county, reinforcing its role as both a commercial and community hub.
Mr Jones added that Landsec’s annual social and economic impact report underscores the centre’s balanced approach to economic, environmental, and social value creation.
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