THE new Majura Park Shopping Centre was officially opened today with crowds of shoppers turning out to see stores including “the best Big W in the country”.

More than 1000 shoppers walked through the centre doors during the first hour of trading for Woolworths, Big W, Dick Smith and other specialty stores.

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Canberra Airport managing director Stephen Byron said the Majura Park offered value and cheaper prices for customers.

“Make no mistake, customers will be the winners here,” Mr Byron said.

Chief Minister Katy Gallagher said the centre would create more than 400 new jobs.

“The new Majura Park Shopping Centre will lift employment located at Canberra Airport to over 10,000 workers,” the Chief Minister said.

“The official opening of the Majura Park Shopping Centre marks another significant milestone in Canberra Airport’s business development strategy.

“In Just over a decade, the Canberra Airport has grown into a multi-faceted transport, business and retail gateway, which contributes significantly to Canberra’s economy,” the Chief Minister said.

The latest retail trade figures show a seasonally adjusted growth of 2.1 per cent in retail turnover in the ACT.

“The opening of this new shopping precinct is another clear signal from the business community of their confidence in the ACT economy. There is confidence in our city, in our spending power and confidence in the future,” the Chief Minister said.