Blackstone-backed shopping mall operator Nexus Select Trust said that despite continuing global economic uncertainty, discretionary spending driven by the festive season remained on a strong footing this year. According to the management, the growth in sales across its portfolio, both during the festive season and during the July-September quarter. Rajesh Deo, chief financial officer of the real estate investment trust (REIT), said that besides an increase in footfall, the trust has also seen an increase in spends per customer, at a time when urban consumption remains sluggish.