The Royal Quays has a new name....the Royal Quays Outlet and Independent Centre. Michael Grahamslaw went along to meet Centre Manager MATT DAWSON to look at his story so far.
What were your career ambitions growing up?
To be a footballer ! I played on most school days and certainly didnt apply myself to my education or do my homework. I left with bad grades and fell into a sports course at college but realised I wanted to work and earn money.
I had spells with Coral and One Stop before landing a Supervisor role at Primark in Newcastle. A management spell at their branch in Tottenham Court Road,London followed and I even found myself working in their Philadelphia branch for a period.
What attracted you to your current role?
I used to go to the Royal Quays on a regular basis before I moved south as it was a focal point of the community. However my last visit had left me rather sad as it was a shadow of its former self. The opportunity to “come home” with the brief of transforming it was to good an opportunity to turn down.
What has been your proudest business achievement so far?
My ongoing work here has given me immense satisfaction. When I arrived in the middle of lockdown, we had 17 empty units and now have only four which we’ll probably always have due to the inevitable churn of retailers moving in and out. I managed to reach out to independents very successfully and we have some great businesses on board such as Black Storm Brewery, Garden World and Stag Fitness alongside Next,Clarks,Moss Bros etc.
How has Royal Quays changed?
The concept of the Centre had to change and become more relevant to more people. Covid meant I had time to assess the situation and put plans in place. Retailers are able to move in easily due to flexible lease arrangements which gives confidence to small independent businesses in knowing they are not going to be locked into a multi year deal.
I have been ably assisted by a fantastic tight knit team headed up by my Assistant Manager Marnie Coulson. They can see what we are trying to do and that Royal Quays has a stable and successful future ahead of it. What are you currently working on?
A comprehensive Christmas programme including a reindeer parade and Santa weekends which are all free for everyone. 100% occupancy is always the long term goal. Also continuing to work on the visual aspects in and around the centre to improve the experience.
What has been your business advice?
If you believe you are capable of doing a better job, don’t let anyone hold you back.
What has been your biggest challenge?
Setting up my own Menswear business at Royal Quays alongside my day to day role. I saw a gap at the Centre and studied for four years before launching Attica Menswear which offers high quality leisurewear without high end pricing. We have already garnered 26 five star reviews on Google which is immensely satisfying.
Who are your heroes in and out of business?
My mother has always been my rock and has supported me through thick and thin. She is my biggest inspiration.
Elsewhere I am a huge fan of Steven Bartlett. I love his Diary of a CEO podcast and to build such wealth at such a young age has been phenomenal.
How do you like to unwind?
Spending time with my family and partner, a little bit of gaming and watching a lot of football!
Favourite Boxset?
The Bourne Identity trilogy…great action and escapism.