In contrast to some parts of the UK, Leicester has maintained demand for retail space over the past few quarters. Noteworthy lease deals over this period include Cotswold Outdoor occupying nearly 12,000 sq ft at Highcross Shopping Centre in Q3 2017 and a 3,500 sq ft letting by The Works at Beaumont Leys Shopping Centre in Q4 2017. On the high street, Greggs opened a store in Gallowtree Gate in Q3 2017. Momentum has continued into 2018, with Social Climbing occupying just over 12,000 sq ft at Highcross Shopping Centre and Mint Velvet opening a high street store at Harborough. All these deals, coupled with a lack of construction over recent years, has resulted in low vacancy rates below the UK national average.