The Buttermarket Centre in Ipswich is inviting local residents to share their thoughts on the shopping centre by becoming mystery shoppers. The initiative, which is open for applications until 17 April 2026, aims to gather honest feedback on the customer experience, with participants eligible to receive a gift card for a store within the centre.
Located on St Stephen’s Lane, the Buttermarket Centre has been a part of the town since 1992. Centre Manager Rebecca Bird noted that the programme is part of an ongoing effort to understand what visitors value most. She described the centre as having significant untapped potential as it prepares for a transition to new ownership.
The shopping centre, which features 32 retail units including stores such as TK Maxx and New Look, as well as an Omniplex cinema, is currently listed for sale. The property was put on the market in January 2026 with an asking price of £10 million. This follows its 2017 acquisition by the current owner, DTZ Investors, for £54.7 million.
Despite the upcoming sale, the centre has reported positive performance metrics. During 2025, it saw a 1.3 per cent increase in footfall compared to the previous year, a trend that stands out against broader high street conditions. Several major retailers have recently committed to new leases at the venue, which also hosts leisure facilities such as Superbowl, PureGym, Wagamama, and Krispy Kreme.
Beyond retail, the centre has maintained an active community role. In 2025, the venue raised £17,026 for charities, donated over 200 food items to the BME Suffolk Food Bank, and provided free space to over 20 community organisations. It also participated in the Salvation Army Toy Appeal by collecting more than 100 toys.
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