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By Andrew Deyes

With the words “student discount” hot on everyone’s lips, it’s little wonder that we all search for the best places to shop, that offer everything.

Manchester has become a vast concrete jungle of shops; finding the right branches to cling onto is hard, as is knowing where to go and what to buy. As retailers fight for market share and to be the next big thing, as consumers, we are becoming bedazzled with it all. It is perhaps this which ultimately leads to brand loyalty.

No matter what your budget, big or small, the metropolitan aspect of Manchester means there is something for everyone. Walking through the maze of streets, as fingers tap screens and bags tussle for air space, means that exciting times for savvy student shoppers, as we all seem to subconsciously compete for the stylized edge.

Whether you’re on the look out for Christmas presents, or impulse purchasing, many say that they have seen a similar in a magazine and need that look. Whatever the motive for purchase, the customer has chosen to shop there. It got us thinking . . .  Where are the best places to shop in Manchester?

1. Northern Quarter

Catalyst for the creative, The Northern Quarter is a great place to shop if you are after something more individual than the high-street, with the likes of Pop Boutique and Oxfam Originals making it their cultural homes. Along with this it has the right mix of individual coffee shops and a mild bohemian vibe, perfect for students and people who want to look and feel different. The atmosphere is relaxed; there is something for everyone, but make sure you take an umbrella, as to get between coffee and clothes shops means walking!

2. Primark

Primark Manchester is the biggest Primark in the world to date, spanning 3 floors; there is over 150,000ft of retail shopping space! Primark doesn’t offer student discount but the products are fast fashion and it is cheap. This retail giant has something for everyone, whether you are looking for a duvet set, or your next summer wardrobe. You are bound to find something you like. Primark has it all.

3. Afflecks

Manchester’s most famous and well-established fashion emporium is definitely worth a mention on this Top 5. A rabbit warren over four floors, Afflecks (formally Affleck’s Palace) contains a mixture of tattoo parlours, clothing, a cereal café, tarot readings and assorted memorabilia. Afflecks is definitely for you if you want a different type of shopping experience and more suited to the alternatively dressed. It is a fantastic place for a wander round, allowing you to  enter a land of discovery. You never know you might fall in love there. A must visits for everyone!

4. The Trafford Centre

Loud and proud, the Trafford Centre has been reported to be the biggest out of town shopping centre in the UK outside of London. Located just outside of the city centre,  this shopping experience has all the room it needs, covering an extensive floor plan. The main attraction is Selfridges and the concessions that it cocoons within it, from the food halls, right through to technology, of course and the much expected designer goods. If you have the budget, you have plenty of opportunities to spend here. The Trafford Centre has a relaxed atmosphere, making you feel right at home, as soon as you step onto the marble floors. Class for the masses. Also, don’t forget to keep your eyes peeled for their student lock in nights throughout the year!

5. Manchester Arndale Centre

Heaven’s answer to the high street! The Manchester Arndale Centre is a huge hit with students, situated in Manchester’s entre. Home to an array of shops, all your favourites are under one roof. Student discount is near enough mandatory in most shops, so you are always going to find some sort of bargain! It has a good mixture of clothing and home stores, along with gadgets and a food court located above. It really is the place to go for all of your everyday needs.