Tag: retail

Fort Kinnaird announces Easter weekend opening hours

HOLIDAY FUN FOR FAMILIES

Fort Kinnaird has confirmed its opening hours for the upcoming Easter bank holiday weekend and is inviting families to enjoy a packed programme of fun, food and entertainment throughout the school holidays.

Whether you’re looking to stock up on Easter crafting supplies, treating the kids to a special meal out, or sampling some limited-edition Easter sweet treats, there is something for everyone looking to make the most of the long weekend and beyond.  

The centre’s opening hours over the Easter weekend will be:

  • Good Friday (Friday 18th April): 9am – 9pm 
  • Easter Saturday (Saturday 19th April): 9am – 6pm 
  • Easter Sunday (Sunday 20th April): 9am – 6pm
  • Easter Monday (Monday 21st April): 9am – 9pm 

Opening times at individual retailers may vary, so visitors are encouraged to check with specific venues ahead of their trip.

Liam Smith, centre director at Fort Kinnaird, said: “We know the Easter break is a cherished time for families to relax, reconnect and make lasting memories.

“That’s why we’re delighted to be hosting a wide range of exciting Easter activities and deals all in one destination, from offers on Easter crafts to discounts at some of our most popular restaurants.”

Easter fun to make the most of at Fort Kinnaird includes:

  • Easter crafting essentials from Hobbycraft: Up your Easter craft game this year by making the most of a 50% discount on some supplies. From paint your own ceramics sets to paint by numbers, there’s something to keep all the little ones entertained on a rainy day.
  • Indulge in some Easter goodies at Frankie & Benny’s: Nothing says Easter like Cadbury Crème Eggs and Frankie & Benny’s have combined these with their cookie dough dessert for the ultimate sweet treat this Easter.
  • Free workshops at Pets at Home: The popular My Pet Pals workshops will be returning to Pets at Home this Easter, where children can get involved in some free crafts while learning about pet welfare and how to look after animals – educational and fun!
  • Kids eat free at Pizza Express: When you’re not snacking on chocolate eggs this Easter, treat your family to a meal at Pizza Express, where kids get a free Piccolo meal with every adult main. This includes Dough Balls, pizza, pasta, or salad, a dessert, and a Bambinoccino.

For more information and to plan your Easter trip to Fort Kinnaird, visit https://www.fortkinnaird.com/ 

Win When You’re Singing: Amazon gives shoppers a chance to sing for their shopping

  • Hit singer Pixie Lott launches voice-activated lockers across the UK as Amazon kicks off its Spring Deal Days
  • Amazon Spring Deal Days offers hundreds of thousands of deals across a range of categories and will run for seven days

Shoppers around the country are being given a chance to sing to win big prizes from this year’s Amazon Spring Deal Days. A series of voice-activated lockers are popping up around the country, featuring popular products from brands including Shark, Oral-B, Ninja, Philips, and more.

The lockers were launched on Tuesday morning by hit singer Pixie Lott, with the first products won by singing shoppers including Bose headphones, an Oral-B electric toothbrush, a BRITA filter, LEGO, a Coco & Eve hair set, and much more. The voice-activated lockers can be found in London, Manchester and Birmingham this week.

The activity marks the start of Amazon Spring Deal Days, which features hundreds of thousands of incredible deals across a range of popular categories, including home, electronics, kitchen, home improvement, fashion, and more. The event offers savings of up to 45% and will run for seven days, from 25-31 March.

“We are always looking for ways to give customers even more value and opportunities to save throughout the year,” said John Boumphrey, UK Country Manager of Amazon. 

“Amazon Spring Deal Days will offer hundreds of thousands of deals across some of our most popular items, including products from big brands and small businesses across the UK.”

Customers shopping the sale will find hundreds of thousands of deals across must-have items from a wide range of categories, such as:

  • Amazon Devices: Take advantage of offers on a selection of Amazon Devices, including Echo, Kindle, Ring, Blink, Fire TV, and eero.
  • Amazon Essentials: Enjoy up to 30% discount on the Sofia Grainge X Amazon Essentials collection.  
  • Amazon Fresh Online: From now until 2nd April, customers can shop a selection of deals across brands like BrewDog Punk IPA, Lindt, Vanish, and more with discounts of up to 30% off.
  • Amazon Resale: Amazon customers can get 30% off a selection of quality used, returned or open-box products from Amazon Resale. The discount will be deducted automatically at checkout after selecting the delivery address. T&C’s apply.
  • Audible: From now through April 30, new members can enjoy 3 months of Audible Premium Plus for £0.99 per month (auto-renews at £7.99/mo after the first 3 months) on Amazon and Audible.
  • Automotive: Save up 15% on Bosch, Castrol, and Noco.
  • Baby: Save up to 30% on feeding products from Tommee Tippee and up to 20% from Philips. Save up to 20% on a selection of car seats from Maxi-Cosi and up to 40% on baby toys from Fisher-Price.
  • Beer, Wine and Spirits: Save up to 30% on premium alcohols including Talisker Single Malt Scotch Whisky, Ciroc Vodka, and Plymouth Gin.
  • Beauty: Save up to 40% on CeraVe, Aveeno, TIGI, and more.
  • Everyday Essentials: Offering millions in savings on thousands of everyday essentials including products from top brands such as Optimum Nutrition, NESCAFÉ Dolce Gusto, and CeraVe.
  • Grocery: Save up to 30% on food and drinks from Illy, Nestlé, Mars, Coca Cola, and more.
  • Home: Save up to 25% on a selection of home products from BRITA, Tefal, Philips Hue, and more.
  • Major Appliances: Save up to 35% on large home appliances from Samsung, Haier, and more.
  • Personal Care Appliances Save up to 55% on electric toothbrushes from brands including Oral-B and Philips and up to 50% on shaving and hair removal from Philips, Braun, and more. Save up to 35% on haircare appliances from ghd, Remington, and more.
  • Private Brands: Save up to 30% discount on Amazon Private Brands including Amazon Basics, Amazon essentials, and byAmazon.
  • Toys: Save up to 15% on toys from LEGO, Mattel, Hasbro, and more.

Pixie Lott has also revealed her Top Ten deals from Amazon’s Spring Deal Days, for those looking to make savings this Spring:

  1. Bose Headphones
    Instax Camera
    Oral-B Electric Toothbrush
    MAX FACTOR Lash Effect Mascara
    Revlon Hair Dryer and Volumiser
    KODAK Portable Photo Printer
    Ninja Air Fryer
    Ninja 2-in1 Power Blender
    Fleetwood Mac ‘Rumours’ Vinyl
    Amazon Essentials x Sofia Grainge Children’s Sweater 

Great Value Across Every Category

Fast and free delivery with Amazon Prime

All Amazon customers can shop for deals throughout Amazon Spring Deal Days, and Prime members will enjoy all the usual membership benefits, including fast, free delivery on millions of items and the option to choose the delivery option that best suits their needs.

Prime members in the UK receive unlimited One-Day Delivery on millions of items across all categories, with Same-Day Delivery available on over a million items. Prime members can also select free delivery to Amazon Lockers or Counters or choose a delivery day preference with Amazon Day.

Edinburgh STYLE is back bigger than ever for 2025

From 28th – 30th March, St James Quarter will play host to an enviable line-up of style talks, fashion shows, beauty masterclasses and more

Edinburgh STYLE will return to St James Quarter this March; bigger, bolder, and more stylish than ever before. Edinburgh STYLE 2025 will bring exciting new partners, including Pat McGrath Labs and W Edinburgh.

Set to be a vibrant celebration of fashion, design and creativity, guests can expect unmissable masterclasses, expert speakers, fashion shows and live entertainment.

Edinburgh STYLE weekend with W Edinburgh

For the first time, Edinburgh STYLE will offer a weekend package, with a two-night stay at W Edinburgh. The weekend tickets, with prices starting at £918, include exclusive access to STYLE workshops with industry luminaries, front row seats at two fashion shows, pop-up gigs, and a very special drinks reception with the Grazia team, plus VIP speakers and so much more. It’s the perfect gift for fashion-forward mums this Mother’s Day.

Book your experience here: https://www.marriott.com/offers/edinburgh-style-weekend-experience-off-154179/ediwh-w-edinburgh

Edinburgh STYLE Line-up

W Edinburgh guests and weekend ticket holders will be able to attend an incredible line-up of events across the three days, including talks from some of the UK’s fashion industry leaders and commentators.

Ex-American and UK Vogue contributing editor and novelist, Plum Sykes, will divulge some of her industry-leading knowledge; and Navaz Batiwalla – aka Disneyrollergirl – will discuss how style has influenced her career, from fashion editor to one of the first internationally recognised bloggers, to writing two ult-a stylish tomes.

Scotland’s own Iain R Webb, writer, curator and Professor of Fashion & Design at the renowned Kingston School of Art, will share his unrivalled insights into the evolution of fashion, trends and style. 

CEO of Harris Tweed, Margaret Ann, will provide a unique insight into the Brand’s recent Dior partnership, and share how Harris Tweed Hebrides takes a design-led approach to collaboration and partnership.  Timorous Beasties, Pam Hogg and more are also confirmed to share their stylish secrets across the weekend.

Alongside the activity at W Edinburgh, the Quarter’s Level 3 the Essential Edinburgh STYLE Lounge will play host to FREE workshops and masterclasses led by top industry insiders from some of the City’s most-loved fashion and beauty brands.

Because this year Edinburgh STYLE is being embraced by our neighbours at Multrees Walk and George Street, shoppers will be able to enjoy a wide range of in-store experiences at over 50 brands.

Susan Hewlett, Brand and Marketing Director at St James Quarter, said: “Edinburgh STYLE has been a key event for St James Quarter for the past four years, continuing to evolve with additional experiences and new collaborators. We are delighted to be joined by a new line-up of partners in 2025, who will add exciting new elements, as well as having our friends from Grazia return for a third year.

“From the ultimate fashion weekend at the W Edinburgh, to amazing shopping experiences around the Quarter, through Multrees Walk and down George Street; along with fashion talks, beauty masterclasses, runway glamour and more, – what a way to welcome spring and spoil mum! STYLE is always around the Quarter.”

Download the St James Quarter app or follow on social media for updates, sneak peeks, and more information on how to get involved in Edinburgh STYLE 2025.

Aldi opens appplications for apprenticeship roles in Edinburgh

Aldi is looking to recruit over 500 new apprentices across the UK in 2025, including in Edinburgh and the Lothians.  

The UK’s fourth-largest supermarket is welcoming applications for its apprenticeship scheme, with opportunities now live across stores and warehouse roles.  

At Aldi, Store Apprentices can earn £8.61 per hour, rising to £12.07. Inside the M25, Store Apprentices can earn £8.84 per hour, rising to £12.72. Meanwhile, those in warehouse roles can earn up to £11.18 per hour.  

Successful applicants will be able to gain industry-recognised qualifications while they earn and will have access to a number of additional benefits, including a range of shopping discounts, a bike to work scheme, 28 days’ paid holiday (including bank holidays) and a mortgage advice option where colleagues can seek free mortgage advice and access mortgage education.  

Aldi is also one of the only UK supermarkets to offer paid breaks. 

Lisa Murphy, Training and Development Director at Aldi UK, said: “We have found so many hard-working and ambitious people through our apprenticeship scheme over the years, and we’re excited to welcome the next intake of individuals to join our Aldi community. 

“Through the scheme, candidates will gain valuable transferable skills, become experts in their roles, and receive industry-leading pay at one of the UK’s top grocery retailers.  

“We’re keen to attract individuals from all backgrounds, and we really encourage anyone who is interested to apply, no matter your level of experience.” 

Those interested in applying for the apprenticeship scheme with Aldi can visit www.aldirecruitment.co.uk/early-careers/apprenticeships

Fort Kinnaird confirms festive opening hours

Picture – Chris Watt Photography 07887554193 info@chriswatt.com www.chriswatt.com

Fort Kinnaird has confirmed its festive opening times for last minute shopping and anyone planning a day out over the Christmas period.

Fort Kinnaird’s full opening times in the run up to and throughout the Christmas week are: 

  • Friday 20th December: 9am – 9pm
  • Saturday 21st December: 9am – 6pm
  • Sunday 22nd December: 9am – 6pm
  • Monday 23rd December: 9am – 9pm
  • Tuesday 24th December (Christmas Eve): 9am – 5pm
  • Wednesday 25th December (Christmas Day): Closed  
  • Thursday 26th December (Boxing Day): 9am – 6pm
  • Friday 27th December: 9am – 8pm
  • Saturday 28th December: 9am – 6pm
  • Sunday 29th December: 9am – 6pm
  • Monday 30th December: 9am – 9pm
  • Tuesday 31st December (Hogmanay): 9am – 5pm 
  • Wednesday 1st January (New Year’s Day): Selected stores open from 9am 6pm
  • Thursday 2nd January (Bank Holiday): 9am – 8pm
  • Friday 3rd January: 9am – 8pm
  • Saturday 4th January – normal trading hours resume: 9am – 6pm

Opening days and times will vary by store, so it’s always recommended that visitors check with individual retailers before setting off. 

Liam Smith, centre director at Fort Kinnaird, said: “Whether you’re visiting to pick up last-minute Christmas gifts, enjoy a seasonal meal, or simply to spend time with loved ones, we’re here right through the festive period to ensure you can get everything you need.”

In collaboration with Edinburgh-based charity, Cyrenians, Fort Kinnaird has also launched a Letters of Hope initiative this festive season, collecting and distributing heartfelt Christmas cards to those at risk of homelessness in and around the city.  

Shoppers can post letters and cards into the special post box – located outside ODEON Cinema – until 20th December. They will then be distributed by Cyrenians in plenty of time for Christmas.  

For more information on Fort Kinnaird and to plan your festive trip please visit https://www.fortkinnaird.com/christmas-day-out

Call for Edinburgh shoppers to choose local this Christmas

Spenders urged to not to turn only to online giants and to spend with region’s businesses

Festive shoppers across Edinburgh and the Lothians are being urged to choose local in the final countdown to Christmas.

With the seasonal shopping season now at its peak, the team behind Scotland Loves Local is urging everyone in the region to prioritise local shops, attractions and enterprises, rather than automatically turning to online retail giants.

The so-called Golden Quarter during the lead-up to Christmas is the most important time of the year for many.

Kimberley Guthrie is Chief Officer of Scotland’s Towns Partnership (STP), the organisation which spearheads Scotland Loves Local.

She said: “Edinburgh and the communities of the Lothians are blessed with so many unique and brilliant local businesses. It’s vital that everyone locally gets out there and supports them.

“This is a critical time for all retail and hospitality businesses. The difference we can make by choosing local and getting behind them really can define their year.

“Whether in person or online, we would encourage everyone to think local first when shopping. It’s an investment in your community’s future.

“By doing so, we are helping to secure the future of local businesses – many of which have served our communities for generations – the jobs of our friends and neighbours and ensuring the foundations remain from which our towns can build a new future.”

Scotland Loves Local is the campaign that urges people to think, choose and spend locally to build better futures for their community. It is spearheaded by Scotland’s Towns Partnership (STP), with support from the Scottish Government.

In recent months, organisations of all kinds across the country have been signing the Scotland Loves Local Pledge – a promise that they will choose local and support the businesses around them whenever it is possible for them to do so.

“That is a pledge that people really can fulfil over the coming weeks,” Kimberley added.

A way in which local people can show that support is by using the Scotland Loves Local Gift Card. Cards can only be spent in the regions they are branded. That makes them a direct way in which money can be used to support local jobs in shops, bars, restaurants and visitor attractions.

Digital developments to the programme in recent months mean it has become easier than ever for businesses to use them as staff rewards this Christmas.

For more information about the Scotland Loves Local Gift Card, go to:

www.lovelocal.scot/giftcard.

A job like no other: Fort Kinnaird launches search for Chief Christmas Officer!

In the lead up to the festive period, Fort Kinnaird is on the hunt for its first ever Chief Christmas Officer (CCO)! 

The lucky young recruit will bag their dream role, with the opportunity to try out the wealth of retailers and experiences at the centre for free, indulging in tasty festive treats and bagging plenty of Christmas goodies all in exchange for their review.

The new CCO will spend a big day out at the centre from seeing one of the latest movies at ODEON Cinema to reviewing the new festive menu at Frankie & Benny’s, with Fort Kinnaird’s newest and littlest recruit rating their experience to make sure it’s fit for a fun-filled festive season.   

What’s more, the CCO will also get the chance to sample the new festive hot chocolate and treats at Hotel Chocolat and test out this year’s most popular toys and gadgets at Menkind, with the lucky individual getting to take one home.

The ideal candidate for the role will be a fun-loving adventurer who loves trying new experiences and must be aged between six and twelve.  

To apply for the opportunity of a lifetime, youngsters should ask their parent or guardian to email fortkinniard.CCO@citypress.co.uk with their name, age and why they’d be the perfect candidate, by Monday 2nd December at 23:59.

Liam Smith, centre director at Fort Kinnaird, said: “At Fort Kinnaird, we’re constantly working to improve the experience of our visitors, and launching the quest for our new Chief Christmas Officer does just that – helping one lucky family to make unforgettable memories while ensuring our festivities are up to scratch!

“Whether you’re shopping for a new Christmas outfit, sampling the latest festive menus or catching a much-loved family-favourite on the big screen, Fort Kinnaird is the perfect place to enjoy a family day out, and our CCO’s suggestions will help us to make sure we’re giving visitors the best possible festive season.

“This once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for a child to become our new Chief Christmas Officer will be the ultimate test to see how we shape up, and we can’t wait to welcome the lucky recruit to the centre!”

For more information and to find out whether the CCO role is for you, please see the full job description and terms & conditions, here.

For more information on the stores available at Fort Kinnaird, please visit https://www.fortkinnaird.com/  

M&S Edinburgh colleague celebrates 50 golden Christmases

Susan Jack, a shining star at Marks & Spencer’s Princes Street store in Edinburgh is celebrating a half-century of holiday magic this year.

Sales Advisor for Jaeger and Womenswear at Marks & Spencer Princes Street, Susan is celebrating her 50th Christmas working for the high-street retailer and is particularly excited about this year’s range of sparkling dresses and skirts, perfect for any festive occasion.

Susan’s M&S career began just before Christmas in 1974 at the Princes Street store, just in time for the holiday rush in the ‘Ladies Fashions’ department.

With 50 years retail experience now under her belt, Susan has witnessed incredible innovations, from the evolution of tights to the affordability of cashmere and to the sparkle of the modern-day beauty counter, particularly at Christmas. She has always been fascinated by the changing trends in customer shopping habits.

From 1994 to 1999, Susan left the Princes Street store to join the opening team at the Gyle Shopping Centre. Remarked as one of Susan’s proudest moments, she thrived in training the new store team before returning to Princes Street as a Section Manager for Womenswear.

For Susan, the Christmas season is a magical time, she reflected: “Christmas is always special, particularly watching customers come in for their Christmas food shop. It brings so much joy to the store.” 

She fondly looks back on the annual ‘turkey trot’, a term the team has coined for when Edinburgh shoppers collected their turkey and cranberry sauce! 

The Turkey ordering service was soon introduced in 1982 to enhance convenience for customers. 

As for Susan’s favourite turkey, she reveals: “The British Oakham Turkey Breast Joint is my favourite, we get it every year as it carves like a dream!”.

Susan has cherished celebrating Christmas with her colleagues over the years. From being amongst the first to sample the Christmas range as soon as it’s released, to attending January Christmas parties (a retail tradition), she has seen it all.

Reflecting on her five decades working for the retailer, Susan Jack, says: “More than anything over the years, M&S has given me confidence; I was very shy when I started, but my time at M&S has taught me how to be outgoing, reassuring me in my skills.

“I’d like to thank all my colleagues for creating such an enjoyable working environment and M&S for all the opportunities I’ve had over the last 50 years. The friendships I have made over the past five decades are truly irreplaceable and will last a lifetime.

“Watching their children grow up and become parents themselves is something I am forever grateful for.”

Store Manager Jon Cameron added; “I am immensely proud of the incredible dedication and achievements Susan has made over the past 50 years. Her unwavering commitment, exceptional service, and the positive impact she has on both our team and customers are truly inspiring.

“We are honoured to celebrate this remarkable milestone and look forward to many more years working alongside Susan.”

New report reveals Amazon’s £3.5 billion investment in Scotland

The latest edition of the Amazon Economic Impact Report is released today, and the figures show that since 2010, Amazon has invested more than £3.5 billion in Scotland. The figures are taken from the latest Amazon Economic Impact Hub, which details the investments made by Amazon across the UK since 2010.

The 2024 Amazon UK Economic Impact Hub features data on the number of jobs Amazon has created regionally and the level of the company’s economic activity supported by its investments. The figures also show the number of local, independent SMEs supported by Amazon and the export sales achieved by businesses who sell products on Amazon.

The 2024 Amazon Economic Impact Report reveals:

  • Since 2010, Amazon has invested around £2.6 billion in Eastern Scotland and over £3.5 billion in Scotland.
  • This investment led to the production of goods and services that contributed over an estimated £3 billion to Scotland’s GDP since 2010.
  • To date, Amazon has created around 3,000 full and part-time jobs in Scotland.
  • More than 130 people in Scotland have completed Amazon’s employability skills training programme since 2010.
  • More than 200 apprentices in Scotland have qualified from the Amazon Apprenticeship programme since 2010.
  • In Scotland, there are around 4,000 small and medium-sized businesses selling on Amazon as independent selling partners.
  • Small businesses from Scotland selling on Amazon recorded over £160 million of export sales in 2023. Small businesses in Eastern Scotland selling on Amazon recorded over £85 million of export sales in 2023.
  • The Big House Multibank in Fife, co-founded by Amazon and former Prime Minister Gordon Brown in 2022, has donated over 2 million surplus goods to families in need across Scotland

Jamie Strain, General Manager at Amazon in Dunfermline, said: “We’re passionate about supporting the regional economy and the wider Scottish community through investments, job creation, charity donations and volunteering. 

“Amazon continues to make a positive impact, including upskilling our employees and helping small businesses in our community reach new heights.

“While we continue to invest in the regional economy, we’re also stepping up our support of community organisations in Dunfermline.

“In 2024, our team has supported a wide range of organisations including Scot Baby Box Appeal, Lochgelly High School and CHAS through employee volunteering, product donations and financial support.

“We’re excited to continue supporting good causes over the coming months while we deliver for customers, sellers and communities.”

More details about Amazon’s economic impact in the UK can be found here – https://www.aboutamazon.co.uk/news/company-news/amazon-economic-impact-uk-tax-contributions-investments

First Look: Gucci’s first standalone boutique in Edinburgh unveiled

MULTREES WALK WELCOMES GUCCI TO EDINBURGH

Gucci is expanding its presence in the UK with the opening of its first standalone boutique outside of London, in Edinburgh.

Situated in the Scottish capital’s luxury shopping destination Multrees Walk, the space spans over 367 square meters and carries a wide selection of product comprising of both men’s and women’s ready-to-wear, handbags, accessories, shoes and jewellery.

The store’s interior design places Gucci’s collections at the forefront, featuring an optical marble flooring inspired by designs in historic buildings, complemented by Gucci Rosso Ancora red, acid green and yellow carpeting, which define various areas within the store.

Clean lines and understated tones are complemented by an intuitive appreciation for Made in Italy values – quality, authenticity, and a distinct sense of style – which resonate with the meticulous choices of materials and furnishings, in harmony with Sabato De Sarno’s contemporary aesthetic.

With a wide assortment of leather accessories available, the space showcases a curated selection of signature handbag lines, including the Jackie 1961, the Horsebit 1955 and the Bamboo 1947 offered in various precious leather variations. 

As part of Gucci’s commitment to implement and enhance eco-friendly initiatives and energy-efficient technologies in the House’s stores worldwide, the new boutique is designed using LEED guidelines and principles; monitor and promote energy efficiency.

Multrees Walk has also welcomed a number of global brands this year including TAG Heuer, Michael Kors and Mappin & Webb, with Omega due to open later this year elevating the luxury retail offering in the capital.