Retail is big business in Chester.  The city's wonderful shopping environment is enjoyed by nearly all of its 8.5m visitors who come each year, as well as by the lucky locals!

Chester was recently ranked best city in England to visit and tenth most profitable in a survey of English towns and cities. It offers an impressive international commercial centre, comprising high street favourites such as Marks & Spencer and Next, specialist shops in eg Godstall Lane, Rufus Court, and St Michael's Arcade, and department stores, such as the renowned Browns of Chester.

It has unique character in its two-tiered gallery of shops called "The Rows", traditional black and white buildings have been restored and re-developed to provide easy access to Chester's main shopping streets.