Brabners' Phil Byrne considers how the High Street could have a merry Christmas; OPINION.

AS THE festive season approaches, retailers are usually bracing themselves for packed stores filled with frantic shoppers.

But, after this year's tough times, should they resign themselves to a disappointing Christmas? Not at all - landlords and tenants can work together to demonstrate strength in a tough marketplace.

Convenience and choice are key for shoppers - landlords can capitalise on this by introducing some effective quick solutions.

Short-term lets over the Christmas period could help the High Street get back to maximum occupancy levels, with a greater level of choice of retail outlets, while enabling landlords to stop paying empty property rates.

Short-term underletting or licence arrangements allowing tenants to share a property, which in certain circumstances could be occupied for less than the full (and sometimes hopeful) market rent, are other potential tactics that could help struggling businesses focus on generating strong sales. At the same time, landlords are protected from losing rental income and having to face costly outgoings.

All of these could help to create excitement and enticement to get shoppers in store and supporting local shops - which will be vital for retailers over the next few months.

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Phil Byrne