Chinese tourists spent more in Manchester’s stores than those from any other nation in 2013.

That’s according to the travel tax refund company Global Blue, which said visitors from China spent 29 per cent more on tax-free shopping in Manchester stores during 2013 compared to the previous year, with an average transaction spend of £677 ($1133).

“China is the top spending international globe shopper in the region, representing 50 per cent of the total tax free spend,” said Gordon Clark, UK country manager at Global Blue.

Kuwait and Thailand also offer huge potential in terms of retail spend in Manchester with retail sales increasing 70 per cent and 73 per cent.

More than 100 Manchester city centre retailers offer tax-free shopping with many, including Harvey Nichols and Selfridges, placing China Union Pay chip and pin terminals in store to allow payments via Chinese credit cards.

Selfridges was the first retailer in the UK to accept China Union Pay, the most popular credit card brand in China.

“Manchester city centre is home to more luxury brands than anywhere else in the UK. In addition to offering keys brands such as Coach, Givenchy, Gucci, Bottega Veneta and Proenza, Manchester also boasts the only Chanel and Tiffany boutiques outside of London,” said Jane Sharrocks, Heart of Manchester BID chair and GM at Selfridges Exchange Square.