KEEP RECEIPTS: It’s amazing how many people still don’t keep their receipts, which remain the simplest way to return or get refunds on goods you’ve purchased. Make it a habit to pop your receipts in an envelope when you get home.

BAG A REUSABLE BAG! Set yourself up for success by stashing them in car trunks, purses, and jacket pockets. It’s no good buying them and leaving them in the drawer!

WALK THE MALLS: Committed to feeling better in 2012? Our weekly organised Mall Walks are a great way to trim away your tummy, and stay close to the clothes rails while you get into that smaller dress size! Meets every Wednesday at 9.45am at the Customer Service desk in the Main Dome.

SHAPE UP! Whether you are happy at your current weight, or intend to lose some New Year pounds, why not get some fitting advice from the in-store experts at The Trafford Centre, so you know your TRUE size when you shop, and can buy accordingly! Many women over or underestimate their true sizing, don’t be one of them!

SAVE FOR THE SALES: The free parking at The Trafford Centre offers a great opportunity to pop a tenner into a jar every time you visit – and soon enough that nest-egg will add up to a guilt-free spending spree next time the sales are on!

WATCH FOR GIFTS: Make the resolution to keep your eyes open for the perfect gift all year round – Mother’s Day, brother’s birthday, they all come around soon enough, and if you buy it when you spy it, you’ll get better deals and never be caught out!

SATURDAY SUPERSTORE: Learn from the masters of shopping who know the secret of visiting The Trafford Centre at the relatively quiet period of Saturday morning. Yes, Saturday pre-lunch is the perfect time to whizz round the shops at speed as we have fewer shoppers in at that time. More space for shopping bags! More time to lounge!

COMPARE THIS: Get clever with your purchases by constantly comparing prices across the Centre. With more than 200 stores, there is an amazing level of choice here, and you can get a real idea for the best bargains just by strolling around and not buying the first thing you see.

APPLY YOURSELF: Get A-Listed, with The Trafford Centre app! This little gem sits on your smartphone, offering you money-off deals, exclusive offers, free gifts and some very enticing discounts at your favourite stores. You even get a digital map of the Centre, so you can plan the most efficient shopping trip you possibly can! Get 'appy in 2012!

by Justin Webb