Tag: Fort Kinnaird

Fort Kinnaird launches new local employment project

Fort Kinnaird has collaborated with Capital City Partnership to launch a recruitment project that will support local people with employment opportunities and achieve new qualifications.

The Focus on Recruitment and Training (FORT) scheme is running for three years and is situated next to the Fort Kinnaird Management Suite. The free service is available for people aged 16 and over and works to identify potential roles for jobseekers with local employers, including retailers at the centre.

The FORT project also includes the delivery of youth focused training courses on Retail and Customer Service, for those aged between 16 and 24. 

The scheme’s inaugural course will run from Monday 27th June until Friday 8th July and will feature an SQA accredited Customer Service qualification, support with CV building, job applications and interview tips along with an opportunity to be interviewed by a recruiting Fort Kinnaird retailer.

FORT is funded by Fort Kinnaird’s co-owner, British Land, and in kind support from the Edinburgh and South East Scotland City Region Deal.

Liam Smith, centre director at Fort Kinnaird, said: “As a hub for many local communities, it’s extremely important to us that we use Fort Kinnaird’s scale to support projects that will make a real difference to the lives of those living closest to us. 

“We’re so pleased that the new FORT project will be available for people to access free advice, training and job opportunities and provide them with the difficult first step into employment or the jump between careers.”

Kenny Hall, integrated employer engagement officer at Capital City Partnership, said: “Retail and Hospitality are two industries that have suffered significantly in terms of staffing off the back of the pandemic, and employers at Fort Kinnaird are no different.

“Through the new FORT project, we hope to upskill and retrain people from the local community to fill the recruitment gaps at Fort Kinnaird and the surrounding area.

“To register your interest in our first course, please email: TrainingAcademy@capitalcitypartnership.org or drop in to see us at the Recruitment and Skills Centre situated within Fleming House at Fort Kinnaird”

For more information on Fort Kinnaird, visit: 

https://www.fortkinnaird.com/community/recruitment-skills-centre-fort-kinnaird or www.rscfortkinnaird.co.uk.

Easter opening times at Fort Kinnaird

For those looking to enjoy a day out with family and friends or pick up some last-minute Easter gifts and decorations, Fort Kinnaird has confirmed its Easter weekend opening times.

With a variety of shops and restaurants, as well as ODEON cinema, there are plenty of ways to make the most of the Easter break at Fort Kinnaird.

From Friday 15th – Monday 18th April the centre’s shopping hours will remain the same as normal: 

  • Good Friday – 15th April: 9am – 9pm
  • Easter Saturday – 16th April: 9am – 6pm
  • Easter Sunday – 17th April: 9am – 6pm
  • Easter Monday – 18th April: 9am – 9pm

Liam Smith, centre director at Fort Kinnaird, said: “We know many people will be looking for ways to spend quality time with family and friends during the Easter break, and we look forward to welcoming them to the centre.

“To help them make the most of this time together, we’re open every day over the Easter weekend, so visitors can spend a day or evening out at the centre.”

Fort Kinnaird is home to more than 70 retailers and restaurants, including Primark, M&S, ProCook, Next, Smyths, Wagamama, Nando’s and Fridays. There are also over 2,600 free parking spaces.

It’s recommended to check the opening hours of individual retailers before setting off to avoid disappointment.

For more information to help plan your Easter trip to Fort Kinnaird, including what’s on head here.

Celebrate Mother’s Day with Fort Kinnaird

Mother’s Day is just a few days away, but there’s still time to pick up the perfect gift for the mother figure in your life.

Whether it’s dinner with family, her favourite perfume or a classic bouquet of flowers, there’s plenty to choose from at Fort Kinnaird.

  1. A family meal

Sometimes the most special gifts are those that you can enjoy together.

Brunch is a great way to spend the day, especially if you’re looking for Mother’s Day ideas for what to do. Browse the menu at Frankie & Benny’s for a delicious pancake stack – or celebrate in style with a cocktail at Fridays.

There’s also lots of restaurants to choose from for a Mother’s Day meal with options including wagamama, Bread Meats Bread and Pizza Express.

  1. A classic gesture

It doesn’t take big gestures to show someone how much they mean to you, a small token to say ‘thanks’ is sometimes all that it takes.

You can’t go wrong with a bunch of Mother’s Day flowers or a new houseplant from M&S to brighten up their day. Don’t forget to visit Card Factory for a Mother’s Day card too.

  1. A pampering present

Take the opportunity to restock their signature scent or treat them to a new fresh or floral fragrance for the spring/summer season at The Perfume Shop.

Boots also has a range of Mother’s Day gift sets to choose from, whether you’re after skincare, bath or beauty buys. Add a candle from Homesense to help them unwind with that at-home spa feeling.

For the ultimate cosy night in, treat them to a fresh set of pyjamas and a new pair of slippers from Next.

  1. A mindful moment

Whether their happy place is in the gym, garden, or curled up on the sofa, there’s got something for everyone.

Check out the fitness range at JD Sports for everything from apparel to yoga mats. Shop seeds, bird houses, gloves and more for keen gardeners at Wilko. Or browse the bestselling books at Waterstones to help them have the perfect day doing what they love.

  1. A special surprise

Surprising the mother figure in your life with an extra-special gift is sure to make them feel good on Mother’s Day and beyond.

Gift a little luxury with designer trainers or a coat from Tessuti. Or, treat them to a gorgeous set of earrings, or a Mother’s Day necklace from Goldsmiths or Beaverbrooks.

  1. An everyday essential

Handbags, purses and wallets are a great Mother’s Day gift idea, and whatever their style, you’ll have no trouble finding ‘the one’ at River Island.

If you’re hoping to wow with an extra big ‘thank you’ this year, visit Tessuti for a range of designer options.

  1. A sweet treat

If they have a serious sweet tooth, you can’t go wrong with a box of chocolates from Hotel Chocolat – the Velvetiser is also a must-have for chocoholics! 

For keen bakers or chefs, shop aprons, spatulas and pans galore at ProCook or treat them to a new cookbook from Nadiya Hussain or Jane’s Patisserie, packed with tasty cakes, bakes and treats.

  1. A homemade treasure

Take the time to make a handmade gift and show just how much they mean to you.

Make a thoughtful Mother’s Day hamper by adding a keepsake to treasure – find a range of personalised Mother’s Day gifts from homeware to accessories at Next. Or print out a family photo at Boots with a pretty frame from Homesense.

For more information about planning a trip to Fort Kinnaird, please visit www.fortkinnaird.com.

Four ways to enjoy a flipping good Pancake Day at Fort Kinnaird

Sweet or savoury? Short stack or pile them high? With Pancake Day just around the corner, we’ve come up with four tasty ways you can celebrate Shrove Tuesday (1st March) at Fort Kinnaird.

  1. Tuck into an American classic at Frankie & Benny’s

If you’re a fan of brunch, then look no further than Frankie & Benny’s this Shrove Tuesday. Tuck into classic American-style pancakes topped with maple syrup and bacon, or why not sweeten things up with banana and chocolate sauce?

Visiting with the whole family? Kids are also catered for, with their breakfast stacks including apple juice, orange juice or milk in the price. View Frankie & Benny’s full menu here.

  1. Get your quick fix at McDonald’s

Looking for a quick and easy option that the whole family will enjoy? McDonald’s is renowned for its McMuffins, but did you know it also serves pancakes for breakfast too?

Diners can enjoy three golden pancakes drizzled with syrup and served with a classic pork sausage patty. Available to sit-in and savour or devour on the go.

View McDonald’s’ full breakfast menu here.

  1. Mix it up with Marks & Spencer

Preparing your pancakes at home? Marks & Spencer at Fort Kinnaird has all the essentials you need to create your dream stack. Along with the key ingredients of eggs, caster sugar, lemon juice, flour and milk, shoppers can also pick up various fruit, syrups and sauces. Kids will love the Percy Pig dessert sauce!

Short on time? Pick up a pack of buttermilk pancakes or try a pre-made shaker mix. Available in classic or vegan varieties, simply add your milk of choice, shake, pour and cook.

Browse in-store or visit Marks & Spencer’s website for more Pancake Day recipe ideas.

  1. Perfect your flip with ProCook

For those looking to show off their skills at home, ProCook has a variety of quality crepe pans to help you flip the perfect pancake.

While the simple carbon steel crepe pan (£7.99) is ideal for little ones having their first attempt, ProCook’s Professional Granite crepe pan (£34) will allow budding chefs achieve the perfect flip. With a non-stick coating and a cast iron body, this pan comes with a 25-year guarantee – making it a great investment for Pancake Days to come!

Pop in store to view the full cookware range or visit ProCook’s website for more inspiration.

For more information about planning a trip to Fort Kinnaird, please visit:

www.fortkinnaird.com.

Make it to the end of Veganuary at Fort Kinnaird

With just a few days left of Veganuary, thinking of ways to keep dishes new and exciting can be a challenge.

For those looking for inspiration, or a treat that doesn’t break your resolution, here’s five vegan-friendly options at Fort Kinnaird that will keep tastebuds satisfied:

  1. Enjoy some ‘vegatsu’ at wagamama 

With wagamama committing to making half of its menu meat-free by 2022, there is a growing number of vegan options available at the restaurant in Fort Kinnaird – which is open until 9.00pm every day. 

With dishes including silky, rich kareborosuramen, vegan ribs and vegatsu on the menu, those in search of a vegan meal will be spoilt for choice. Check out the menu here. 

  1. Try the vegan experience at Frankie & Benny’s 

Frankie & Benny’s has long been a family favourite and the chain now has a host of vegan options on their menu for those looking to try more plant-based options. 

The Tower Beet Burger, loaded with vegan mozzarella, sliced aubergine, napolitana sauce and torn basil is a mouthwatering option, while the vegan peperoni pizza along with plantballs Italiano and vegan ice cream mean there is something for everyone at Frankie & Benny’s. 

The restaurant at Fort Kinnaird is open until 9.00pm from Monday to Thursday and until 10.00pm on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, making it an ideal way to complete your day out. 

  1. Experience the ‘Angry Vegan’ at Bread Meats Bread

Bread Meats Bread has been a hit at Fort Kinnaird ever since it opened its doors, and the restaurant has a number of incredible vegan options.

Using Moving Mountains Plant Based Burgers, the team at Bread Meats Bread have developed a range of delicious burgers, including the ‘Cheesy M&M’ and the ‘Angry Vegan’, for those looking for a fantastic burger, without the meat.

Find out more about Bread Meats Bread’s largest restaurant in Scotland here.

  1. Get the best of the Plant Kitchen range at M&S 

This bestselling range at M&S is a staple for those looking to create plant-based meals at home. 

Spice up your night with tacos made with Plant Kitchen fishless goujons or pack a punch with crispy BBQ wings inspired by the flavours of Korea.  

After a sweet treat? Plant Kitchen now offers salted caramel cookie dough – perfect for layering with fruit and dairy-free ice cream. 

Pop into the Fort Kinnaird store to discover the full range.  

  1. The vegan treats are sweet at Hotel Chocolat

Luxury British chocolatier and cacao grower Hotel Chocolat is well known for its incredible chocolate selection, but did you know the retailer also stocks a host of vegan options?

With the ‘vegan sleekster’ selection box and the ‘all dark vegan chocolate hamper’ available, pop in store to see the incredible range of vegan sweet treats.

To find out more, visit https://www.fortkinnaird.com/.

Christmas opening times at Fort Kinnaird

For those looking to fit in some last-minute festive shopping, Fort Kinnaird has confirmed its opening times for the run up to Christmas.

The centre will be open from 9am until 6pm on Saturday, 10am until 6pm on Sunday and from 9am until 9pm Monday to Thursday. On Christmas Eve, Fort Kinnaird will be open from 9am to 5pm.

Fort Kinnaird is home to a huge range of brands, including high street favourites Clark’s, Next and OFFICE, and restaurants such as Bread Meats Bread, Nando’s and Wagamama, as well as a 7 screen ODEON cinema.

Liam Smith, centre director at Fort Kinnaird, said: “We know many people have started their Christmas shopping early this year, but there’s also many who still have plenty to do or those last few bits to buy.

“We’re open right up until Christmas Eve, and look forward to welcoming visitors doing their festive shopping or spending some quality time with friends and family – right up to the big day.

“With our late night opening hours, we’re giving people even longer to shop meaning they can choose to visit at a time that’s more convenient or perhaps a little quieter for them.”

The centre continues to have extra measures in place to help visitors feel safe. Face coverings are compulsory in all indoor areas and we’re encouraging everyone to maintain a safe distance from others.

We have enhanced cleaning regimes in place and our retailers are encouraging contactless payments where possible. Our stores and restaurants are also carefully managing visitor numbers to be confident that everyone can maintain social distancing.

Free parking is available as usual, and all visitors are encouraged to check the opening hours for individual retailers directly with them before setting off.

The centre’s opening times for the rest of the festive period are:

  • Christmas Day: Closed
  • Boxing Day: 9am – 6pm
  • 27th- 30th December: 9am – 9pm
  • New Year’s Eve: 9am – 5pm
  • New Year’s Day: Cinema and selected restaurants open only. Please check with individual retailers for opening hours
  • 2nd January: 9am – 6pm

For more information to help plan your festive trip to Fort Kinnaird, head here.

Christmas celebrations start at Fort Kinnaird

Christmas will officially arrive at Fort Kinnaird this weekend as Santa Claus comes to town for three weekends of festive fun.

Santa and his chief elf Twinkle will be popping up at the centre every Saturday until the 18th December to sprinkle some Christmas cheer.

Shoppers will also be able to take in the glittering Christmas decorations around the centre, including trees, star lights and Santa’s very own trusty reindeer which is located near Odeon.

Throughout the festive season Fort Kinnaird visitors will be able to make contactless donations to the centre’s chosen charity, Radio Forth Cash for Kids Mission Christmas, at the giant Giving Box located outside Boots.

Mission Christmas is a lifeline to families living in poverty, for who Christmas is a luxury they can’t afford. Generous donations from the public can help ensure children across the Lothians, Fife and Falkirk receive a gift on Christmas morning.

Liam Smith, centre director at Fort Kinnaird, said: “Christmas was a difficult time for many last year, so we want to do what we can to help make this year extra special. We’re excited to have a range of activities and festive characters to help visitors get into the Christmas spirit.”

Fort Kinnaird’s later opening times mean visitors have a full twelve hours to pick up their Christmas shopping every weekday from 9am – 9pm, with opening hours from 9am – 6pm on Saturday and Sunday. Please check with individual retailers for opening hours.

Free parking is available as usual and shoppers are being encouraged to visit outside of peak times if they can, with quieter times usually before 11am and after 6pm on weekdays.

For more information about planning a trip to Fort Kinnaird, please visit: 

https://www.fortkinnaird.com/christmas

7 ways to celebrate World Vegan Month at Fort Kinnaird

November is World Vegan Month and, with COP26 taking place just along the M8 in Glasgow, a lot of East coasters may be tempted to explore more vegan alternatives in an effort to reduce their impact on the planet. 

Whether you’re looking for somewhere to enjoy a relaxed vegan dinner with friends or vegan-friendly fashion and beauty products, here’s five ways to celebrate World Vegan Month at Fort Kinnaird: 

  1. Enjoy some ‘vegatsu’ at wagamama 

With wagamama committing to making half of its menu meat-free by 2022, there is a growing number of vegan options available at the restaurant in Fort Kinnaird – which is open until 9.00pm every day. 

With dishes including silky, rich kareborosuramen, vegan ribs and vegatsu on the menu, those in search of a vegan meal will be spoilt for choice. Check out the menu here. 

  1. Try the vegan experience at Frankie & Benny’s 

Frankie & Benny’s has long been a family favourite and the chain now has a host of vegan options on their menu for those looking to try more plant-based options. 

The Tower Beet Burger, loaded with vegan mozzarella, sliced aubergine, napolitana sauce and torn basil is a mouthwatering option, while the vegan peperoni pizza along with plantballs Italiano and vegan ice cream mean there is something for everyone at Frankie & Benny’s. 

The restaurant at Fort Kinnaird is open until 9.00pm from Monday to Thursday and until 10.00pm on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, making it an ideal way to complete your day out. 

  1. Experience the ‘Angry Vegan’ at Bread Meats Bread

Bread Meats Bread has been a hit at Fort Kinnaird ever since it opened its doors, and the restaurant has a number of incredible vegan options.

Using Moving Mountains Plant Based Burgers, the team at Bread Meats Bread have developed a range of delicious burgers, including the ‘Cheesy M&M’ and the ‘Angry Vegan’, for those looking for a fantastic burger, without the meat.

Find out more about Bread Meats Bread’s largest restaurant in Scotland here.

  1. Get the best of the Plant Kitchen range at M&S 

This bestselling range at M&S is a staple for those looking to create plant-based meals at home. 

Spice up your night with tacos made with Plant Kitchen fishless goujons or pack a punch with crispy BBQ wings inspired by the flavours of Korea.  

After a sweet treat? Plant Kitchen now offers salted caramel cookie dough – perfect for layering with fruit and dairy-free ice cream. 

Pop into the Fort Kinnaird store to discover the range.  

  1. The vegan treats are sweet at Hotel Chocolat

Luxury British chocolatier and cacao grower Hotel Chocolat is well known for its incredible chocolate selection, but did you know the retailer also stocks a host of vegan options?

With the ‘vegan sleekster’ selection box and the ‘all dark vegan chocolate hamper’ available, pop in store to see the incredible range of vegan sweet treats.

  1. Put some pep in your step with vegan shoes from OFFICE 

There’s never been so much choice when it comes to vegan fashion. Some of the world’s biggest fashion brands are now making clothing, shoes and bags using materials like recycled ocean plastic and reclaimed water bottles to reduce their impact on the planet. 

OFFICE is a great example of how giving up leather doesn’t mean giving up on style. Stop by to browse its range of vegan shoes from brands including Dr. Martens and Blowfish.

 Pop into the Fort Kinnaird store to discover the vegan range. 

  1. Going green at the big screen with ODEON

Your big vegan day out doesn’t have to stop when you head for the big screen at Fort Kinnaird’s ODEON cinema.

ODEON’s popcorn is vegan and the cinema’s dairy-free Ben & Jerry’s ice cream is suitable for vegans if you’re feeling indulgent. Check out what’s showing at ODEON Cinema. 

To find out more, visit https://www.fortkinnaird.com/

Frankie & Benny’s is offering free breakfast at Fort Kinnaird

To celebrate the launch of its brand-new breakfast menu, Frankie & Benny’s at Fort Kinnaird is offering free a breakfast to anyone who wears their pyjamas to the restaurant.

Running until midday on Sunday 17th October, customers will have the chance to try the new breakfast items including a fruity French Toast, a Beef Brisket Hash, and a Breakfast Wrap filled with cheese, sausage, bacon, potato tots and fried egg.

To enjoy a free breakfast up to the value of £10, all customers need to do is turn up in their pyjamas, snap a picture of them and their meal and share it on their socials with the hashtag #PJsAtFrankies.

Liam Smith, centre director at Fort Kinnaird, said: “What better way for Frankie & Benny’s to launch their new breakfast menu than to get shoppers dressed in their comfiest pj’s before tucking into some tasty new dishes – all for free!

“If you’re hoping to join the pyjama party at Fort Kinnaird this week, make sure to get booked in as I’m sure it’ll prove popular with our visitors!”

Visit the Fort Kinnaird Frankie & Benny’s restaurant by booking a table online, or by calling 0131 669 3190.

A roundup of the latest job roles available at Fort Kinnaird

Fort Kinnaird is advertising over 30 job roles on its website, with vacancies available across retailers, restaurants and facilities.

There is a selection of part-time, temporary and full-time positions available across over 14 brands – ranging from beauty therapists and retail customer advisors to chefs and security officers.

Liam Smith, centre director at Fort Kinnaird, said: “It’s been a really positive time for us and our retailers since we’ve reopened. With new brands coming to the centre in the next few months, it’s great to see such a variety of roles available via our partners at the Recruitment & Skills Centre based at Fort Kinnaird.

“We’re looking forward to bringing even more job opportunities to the city.”

Here’s a selection of some of the opportunities available:

ProCook

If you’re a customer focused and target oriented team player with an interest in cooking, ProCook is a recruiting for a number of roles at its newly opened Fort Kinnaird store. In return for providing excellent customer service and exceeding sales targets, you’ll receive fantastic company benefits, with opportunities for development and performance related progression.

Current vacancies: Deputy Managers (closes 29th October), Temporary Christmas Staff (closes 30th November 2021), Sales Advisors (closes 24th November),

You can find out more and apply here.

MAC (Boots)

Beauty lovers, this is the job for you! The MAC store within Boots at Fort Kinnaird is looking for a Retail Manager. You’ll be responsible for all areas of your business, inspiring your team day in and day out in a fast-paced environment to deliver world-class customer experience.

If you’re a commercially minded, inspirational leader with a knack for creating a real buzz around sales and artistry, you can apply for the role via the Estee Lauder website.

Three

Three’s Fort Kinnaird store is looking for friendly and ambitious individuals to join its award-winning retail team as a Customer Advisor. There will be lots of opportunities to develop and show your drive to succeed in an environment that supports and prepares you for the next level of your career.

The current vacancies available are full-time and part-time (12 hours per week) Retail Customer Advisors, with vacancies closing on 2nd November.  You can find more and apply via the Three website.  

PizzaExpress

If you’ve got a passion for high standards, food or just an interest in learning, PizzaExpress can help you develop a career where the sky’s the limit.

PizzaExpress opened its first restaurant over 50 years ago. Over 600 restaurants later, its passion to create hand crafted authentic pizza remains the same.

There are plenty of ways to progress your career into senior kitchen, supervisory or management roles and lots of opportunity to earn more, with plenty of benefits too.

The current vacancies available are a part-time Potwash (closing date 10th October) and part-time Front of House Support Team (closing date 17th October).

Find out more and apply via the PizzaExpress website.

For the latest job vacancies at Fort Kinnaird and further guidance, please visit www.rscfortkinnaird.co.uk.