New manager’s excitement to lead Ashton shopping centre

THE Ladysmith Shopping Centre in Ashton-under-Lyne has an experienced new manager at the helm.

Ian Pratt has worked his way up from security guard to operations manager, a role in which he worked for six years before taking on the new post.

He began his career in the shopping centre industry around 14 years ago and has previously managed a portfolio of retail parks across the Midlands.

Ian replaces Lee Ellis, who became Acting Centre Manager in January 2022 before being handed the permanent reins in July last year.

He has spoken of his excitement to be given the opportunity at the Ladysmith and hopes to add social value for the residents and the wider community.

“We have a great mixture of independent and national businesses which gives the centre a unique offering that suits the local community’s needs,” Ian commented.

“Over the coming months, we will be working hard to ensure we can meet the needs of our customers and community.

“I am incredibly excited about starting my new role and I look forward to meeting the customers in due course.”

The centre has a mixture of national retailers – such as Boots, Costa and Specsavers – and independent retailers including Lullabys, Rosie’s Cafe and Lady Joko.

Ian plans to continue to showcase the range of retail products available at the centre in the year ahead, as well as trying to attract regular and new visitors and putting on a programme of free family events.

Away from work, Ian enjoys spending time with his family and his weekends are often spent immersed in the world of motorsport. He also likes to work on his own car with his son which he shows off at local car shows and rallies.