Aldi introduction transforms Toowoomba shopping centre

THE owners of a previously-struggling shopping centre in Toowoomba’s western suburbs said the introduction of Aldi as the anchor tenant had put it on the path to prosperity.

The opening of Aldi at the Bridge St Plaza in Torrington.

THE owners of a previously-struggling shopping centre in Toowoomba’s western suburbs said the introduction of Aldi as the anchor tenant had put it on the path to prosperity.

Foot traffic and parking at the Bridge St Plaza in Torrington has dramatically increased since Aldi opened its doors in early January.

The centre had previously been struggling after the closure of the prior anchor tenant IGA.

But director Graham Wight, who owns the plaza with business partner Warwick Edge, said the Aldi opening had been a huge boost for locking in current tenants and attracting new businesses into the centre.

“There has been a significant increase in foot traffic and interest in the centre as advised by existing tenants,” he said.

“We have negotiated two new leases, to be signed shortly, and a new ATM will be installed very soon as well.

“There are ongoing discussions and negotiations for new leases of unleased premises.

“Long standing tenants have noted a solid increase in customer traffic and business.”

The Bridge St Plaza was swamped with shoppers on the opening day of Aldi last month, and business has been strong consistently.

The centre includes longstanding tenants like a hairdresser, bakery and pharmacy, some of which have been involved since its opening more than a decade ago.

The increase in business was noted on the opening day of Aldi on January 7, which saw people lining up outside to get in and the car park completely filled.

Mr Wight said feedback from shoppers and tenants had been very positive to this point.

“There is a very positive outlook for the centre now that the anchor tenant has been secured and new customers are visiting the specialty shops in increasing numbers,” he said.

“Many locals have commented that it is wonderful to be able to buy groceries again from the supermarket and to be able to buy coffee and meals as well as bread, cakes and pastries and pharmaceutical items and of course have you hair cut by our fantastic hairdressers.

“The car park has never been full to capacity before, like it has been frequently since ALDI opened.”

The Bridge St Plaza was swamped with shoppers on the opening day of Aldi last month, and business has been strong consistently.

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