The centre is fully let and has seen a steady growth in trade this year, despite a tough December 2008/January 2009 trading season when SARS visited the centre and closed down some of the shops over what would have been their busiest time.

After SARS received all the required documentation and found no illegal goods or anything that had not passed through the correct channels, all the shops were reopened.

Shwu-ing Liou, Trustee of the China Town Trust, was very careful in his tenant selection at China Town, screening them thoroughly and ensuring that a variety of quality goods would be stocked at low prices, said Steve Kruger, a member of the Trust.  The full range that can be found here includes electronic equipment, crockery, cosmetics, clothing, luggage, motor spares, carpets, furniture, groceries and toys and there is also a food court.

“Many retail centres are battling in the current economic climate, but China Town is doing very well because it has filled a niche in the market,” said Kruger.

To celebrate its first year of trading, China Town will be having a “birthday bash” on the weekend of the 26th/27th September.  Good Hope Radio will be broadcasting from the premises on the 26th, there will be gift voucher giveaways and one lucky shopper can win a two night stay at Montagu Springs.

China Town can be found opposite the Ottery Hypermarket on Ottery Road and is open seven days a week from 9am to 5pm.