THE number of pound shops and discount retailers continues to grow relentlessly in Huddersfield town centre.

Some think such shops drag the image of the area down but the fact that these discount chains are posting huge profits shows that the recession for others is a boom time for them. Poundworld, which is to open another store in Huddersfield, has reported an annual profit growth of more than 52% for the past three years with its latest earnings standing at £5.49m.

It may just be that people are flocking to these chains because they are giving value for money and are havens for those with an eye and a pocket for a bargain.

Money is tight and even life’s essentials are being squeezed with families facing tough choices each day.

So within days of seeing Clinton Cards which has two shops in Huddersfield town centre go into administration another big name is opening a second store in the town.

These changes are a clear indication of what people are spending their money on and what they no longer see as an essential.