Landsec, owner of one of the UK’s leading retail destination portfolios, has released its annual social and economic impact report revealing how Bluewater is helping to drive local growth, contributing £233,539,334 to the local economy and supporting 4,138 jobs in 2025.*
As one of Kent’s leading retail and leisure destinations, Bluewater plays an important role in people’s everyday lives that extends far beyond shopping. By supporting business growth, creating jobs and pathways into employment and providing a place where communities come together, the destination creates lasting value for local people, businesses and neighbourhoods.
In 2025, Bluewater supported 4,138 jobs across Landsec, its retail partners and businesses operating at the destination. It also helped 236 people move closer to employment through initiatives such as employability partnerships, which provide valuable hands-on industry experience, and work placements.
The research also found that Bluewater delivered £1,548,811.72 in social value in 2025 through investment in local communities and employment initiatives, including bursaries, community grants, volunteering and partnerships. These initiatives help create lasting value beyond economic contribution by supporting community wellbeing, strengthening local partnerships and fostering a sense of pride in the local community.
Alongside its economic and social contribution, Bluewater continues to invest in a more sustainable future. In 2025, the destination reduced its energy intensity by 19%, reflecting Landsec’s commitment to creating places that deliver lasting value for local communities and the environment. The site’s 240-acre footprint includes a sustainable drainage lake system that conserves 460m³ of water annually, supporting climate resilience and reducing reliance on mains supply. All electricity is sourced from renewables, and the centre ensures that zero waste is sent to landfill.
Bluewater continues to strengthen its position as one of the UK’s leading retail and leisure destinations, with global brands such as GARAGE choosing to open their first UK store at the centre, and long-term brand partners investing in their future at Bluewater, with NEXT tripling their footprint later this month to make Bluewater their largest UK store. Beyond retail, Bluewater remains committed to making a positive impact through partnerships with organisations including Ellenor – a Kent-based hospice providing vital palliative care – chosen by the Bluewater team as their Charity of the Year. In the first six months of the partnership, the initiative delivered a combined social, financial, and in-kind value of over £1m. The momentum culminates this summer with the “We’re Going on a Bear Hunt” summer art trail, with Bluewater the official event partner.
James Waugh, Centre Director at Bluewater, said: “Retail destinations are part of the fabric of the communities they serve. They help local businesses grow, create employment opportunities and provide places where people can come together, connect and spend time.
“The findings published today demonstrate the important contribution Bluewater continues to make to Kent. By investing in the destination, supporting employment, working with community partners and operating more sustainably, we’re helping businesses and communities thrive. In turn, that attracts further investment, supports long-term growth and creates lasting value for the local area.”
