It's been a bad few weeks for the high street

It always seems odd that the collapse of a retailer the size of Game barely registers a mention from the benches of the House of Commons despite the loss of so many jobs. That level of upset and indignation seems to be reserved only for the
closure of a factory.

Luckily, Game has been kept alive, albeit with fewer stores. And the Government is doing something for high streets with its acceptance of the Portas plan and the pledge of money.

There has been more positive news that should remind us that not every town centre is dying. It seems we can’t get enough of eating on the go, or fancy coffee or teas. Pret a Manger, Costa Coffee, Eat and others have been busy announcing expansion. Perhaps a sudden, inexplicable jump in pasty sales could see Greggs also expand.

And then there have been the announcements from some international players of their intentions to open in the UK.

Some more established names such as Hollister and the Inditex stable are steadily increasing in number. And US brands like J Crew and American Eagle have confirmed that they will arrive here soon, encouraged by their internet sales to UK customers.

Then there are the interesting companies from the so-called emerging markets of India and China who are stepping up their plans to come to the UK.

Chinese luxury retailer Bosideng will open on London’s South Molton Street this summer.

Indian textile giant SKNL was down to the last two to buy Peacocks and is apparently not deterred by losing out to Edinburgh Woollen Mill.

Other Indian conglomerates are said to be casting their eye over UK retail.

What does it all mean? Clearly, we are not talking about a wave of interest that will revive all town centres.

But it is a strong reminder that where there is footfall, town centres are dynamic places that constantly throw up new opportunities, which is what retail exists to serve.