Hastings has the highest occupancy rate of Napier and Hastings, according to the August Logan Stone Retail Occupancy Survey.
Hastings has 96.8 per cent, Havelock North 96.4 per cent, Taradale 94.6 per cent and Napier 92.3 per cent.
Hastings Business Association General Manager Jane Janes said there had been anumber of positive tenancy changes in the past six months with more expected in the next quarter.
"The new Cotton On store and relocation of Pagani have helped boost the fashion offer in the CBD and we're excited to have Danske Mobler coming to Hawke's Bay to take over the old Freedom Furniture site in Heretaunga St," she said. "The new store is expected to open within the next few months."
The Rugby World Cup is expected to boost the region with Hastings set to capitalise.
"The street upgrade in the 300 block was completed two days ahead of schedule, the i-Site upgrade looks fantastic and Archibald Hastings-Heart is eagerly waiting to greet our international visitors.
"Most retailers throughout Hastings have flag bunting up and their stores are looking great. We're all looking forward to some rugby-related festivities and, of course, sales."
Retail developments under way in the CBD included the conversion of the Farmers for Home store in the 100 Heretaunga St block. The site was recently bought by Wallace Development and is expected to be converted into smaller stores with a focus on attracting fashion retailers. Leasing was in progress now.
Robyn Burns, Centre Manager for the Plaza in Russell St, said foot traffic had increased month on month at the centre this year with July and August particularly strong months with increases of 14.7 and 14.2 per cent.
"The latter half of winter has been a particularly strong trading period with Kmart and Number 1 Shoes attracting significant customer numbers based on winter fashion and the annual Kmart toy sale," she said.
The Plaza carpark upgrade was due for completion this month in line with the upgrade of St Aubyn St and pedestrian access to the large format retail development at the former Nelson Park.
"Retail in Hastings remains buoyant and the CBD is being upgraded on every front. The city is undergoing significant change with some exciting projects under way that will really benefit our local businesses," she said.
