Retail has always moved with the times, but recently, the pace of change has ramped up. Today’s shoppers aren’t just browsing for products; they’re looking for connection, convenience, joy and shared moments – especially families.
From my perspective at Clearhill, working with shopping centres and retailers across the UK and Ireland, one thing is clear: expectations are evolving fast.
From shopping to sharing experiences
The role of the shopping centre is shifting. We’re seeing a growing trend towards experiences that complement retail – whether that’s entertainment, interactive zones, or family-friendly services. It’s no longer just about footfall – it’s about engagement, dwell time and giving people a reason to return.
At Clearhill, we support more than 400 shopping locations with family-focused attractions – from classic children’s rides to digital claw machines and rewards-based apps. We call them micro-experiences – those small but powerful moments that create joy, spark curiosity and elevate a day out.
Introducing FunHub
Building on this momentum, I’m proud to share that we’re launching our first full-scale FunHub outlet this May.
This concept has been in the works for some time and reflects everything we’ve learned about what families want from modern retail spaces. It’s not just a collection of machines; it’s a destination designed around interactive play, shared experiences and family time.
FunHub is where convenience meets connection. Whether it’s a quick visit or a day out, we want to give families a space to explore, unwind, and enjoy themselves together. And this is just the beginning – we’re already looking ahead to more locations.
Investing in the future
Behind the scenes, we’ve also made a major investment in our own team and infrastructure. Our newly refurbished £850,000 headquarters in Banbridge provides a dynamic, collaborative base that reflects the energy of our business and our ambitions for growth.
This isn’t just a refurbishment – it’s a reflection of who we are and where we’re going. At Clearhill, we believe in people-first retail; experiences that surprise, delight and strengthen the communities they serve.
What’s next for retail?
We’re in a moment of transformation. Yes, the landscape is more competitive than ever – but that also brings opportunity. Retail destinations must now be curated, activated and constantly reimagined to stay relevant. Experience isn’t an add-on anymore; it’s the new anchor. At Clearhill, we’re embracing that shift, and we’re excited about what’s next.
Let’s talk about how we can reimagine your retail space. If you’re a shopping centre operator or retail partner looking to create more engaging, family-friendly environments, I’d love to connect.
