Tag: retail

swim school headline the launch of Westfield St James Quarter 

Designer Charles Jeffrey brings Westfield Days: The Sound of Style to Edinburgh

Rock band swim school headlined a night of live performance, DJ sets and Scottish design at Westfield St James Quarter on Thursday night (10 September), as the centre officially became Westfield St James Quarter with the opening of ten days of cultural programming curated by Scottish designer Charles Jeffrey.

The evening was one of three UK events held on the same night for Westfield Days: The Sound of Style, presented in partnership with the British Fashion Council, with sister events at Westfield London and Westfield Stratford City.

In Edinburgh, guests were treated to a headline set from swim school, a performance from drag act Jonbers, a DJ set from Jungle Hussi with guests piped down to the stage by trans piper, Malin Lewis.

Westfield Days centres around Charles Jeffrey’s Listening Room, an immersive installation built from his own archive and soundscapes, and his PUNK FLEA MARKET, a limited-time shop of archival pieces, accessories and exclusive products. Guests got a first look at both ahead of the wider ten-day programme, which runs at Westfield St James Quarter until 20th September.

Born in Scotland, Jeffrey is internationally recognised for blending design, performance, music and culture into a distinctive creative vision.

Returning home for the takeover, he said: “I’m looking forward to celebrating the people, places and cultural influences that inspire my work, on home turf here in Scotland.

“This is ten days of everything that’s shaped me – the music, the people, the chaotic creativity of it all – and I want Edinburgh to feel like it’s part of that story, not just watching it happen.”

Alice Johnson, singer with swim school said: “Headlining the opening night of Westfield St James Quarter was brilliant, and playing alongside everything Charles Jeffrey’s put together for Westfield Days: The Sound of Style made the night feel like something genuinely different for the city.

“Westfield St James Quarter feels buzzing – and we’re proud to have been a part of the launch.”

Anne Ledgerwood, Estate Director at Westfield St James Quarter, said:“This is what the new chapter for Westfield St James Quarter looks like – bold and built around real creative talent.

“Becoming Westfield St James Quarter is an exciting evolution for this destination, and we wanted the launch to feel like that. Ten days of music, fashion and ideas from Charles Jeffrey, one of Scotland’s most exciting creative voices, is exactly the statement we hoped to make.”

Highlights of the Westfield St James Quarter launch included:

  • An exclusive Listening Room and soundscapes built from Scottish designer Charles Jeffrey
  • The opening of Jeffrey’s PUNK FLEA MARKET, a limited-time shop of archival pieces, accessories and exclusive products
  • A headline performance from rock band swim school, alongside drag performer Jonbers, DJ Jungle Hussi and piper Malin Lewis

Guests to Westfield St James Quarter can experience a full programme of talks, workshops and live performances continuing at each centre as part of the wider Fashion Britain initiative.

Highlights include:

  • Fri 11 Sept, 5.30-6.15pm: Charles Jeffrey LOVERBOY x V&A Dundee: Scottish Fashion in Conversation. Charles Jeffrey and V&A Dundee’s Kirsty Hassard discuss Scottish fashion history, introduced by the British Fashion Council’s Laura Weir. 
  • Sun 13 Sept, 10-11.30am:  Fashion Photography Workshop: Creating the Narrative with Claudius Ricketts. A hands-on session on building a fashion image from concept to shoot, with real models. Ages 16+.
  • Sun 13 Sept, 12-1pm: Love Your Body Dance Workshop with Ivan Blackstock. An energetic Hip Hop-rooted movement session from the choreographer behind Beyoncé’s Brown Skin Girl. Ages 16+.
  • Wed 16 Sept, 2-2.30pm: Talk: Tarot, Fashion & Identity with Jade Mordente. Jade Mordente explores tarot and fashion as parallel tools for self-expression.

Full programme of activity is available to view here.

New name for St James Quarter

Charles Jeffrey reveals full programme for Westfield Days: The Sound of Style at Westfield St James Quarter

11-20 September 2026 | Westfield St James Quarter

To celebrate the launch of Westfield St James Quarter, officially renamed on 10 September 2026, acclaimed Scottish designer Charles Jeffrey returns home for an immersive ten-day takeover as part of Westfield Days: The Sound of Style. 

Presented in partnership with the British Fashion Council, the programme forms part of Fashion Britain, a nationwide initiative celebrating the designers, communities and cultural influences shaping British fashion today. 

Born in Scotland, Charles Jeffrey is internationally recognised for blending design, performance, music and culture into a distinctive creative vision.  

Returning home for the takeover, he brings that world to Westfield St James Quarter across three experiences: an exclusive Listening Room built from his own archives and soundscapes; the PUNK FLEA MARKET, a limited-time shop of archival pieces, accessories and exclusive products; and a full programme of talks, workshops and live performances spanning fashion, music and culture. The entire programme is curated by Jeffrey himself and features some of the most exciting, emerging names.  

A particular highlight will see Jeffrey in conversation with Kirsty Hassard, Senior Curator at V&A Dundee, in a talk introduced by the British Fashion Council’s Laura Weir. The conversation will explore the role research plays in shaping Jeffrey’s collections, Scotland’s rich fashion history and its influence on contemporary design, and the importance of recognising the creative talent to have come out of Scotland.  

The talk will connect directly to V&A Dundee’s current Catwalk exhibition, which traces the stories, designers and cultural influences that have shaped Scottish fashion’s place on the global stage. 

Guests can also expect a vibrant mix of experiences throughout the programme, including intimate one-to-one tarot card readings with the incredibly gifted Jade Mordente, an inspiring dance workshop with acclaimed choreographer Ivan Blackstock – known for his work on Beyoncé’s Brown Skin Girl music video – and a specially curated pop-up Vinyl Lounge from local tastemakers, Umbrella Vinyl. 

Charles Jeffrey said: “I’m looking forward to celebrating the people, places and cultural influences that continue to inspire my work on home turf here in Scotland and am delighted to have the opportunity to create something that feels immersive, playful and open to everyone.

“This programme is about showing how I work – the music, the references, the people I collaborate with – and putting it all in one place for ten days.

“There’s something for everyone, whether that’s catching a gig, digging through the PUNK FLEA MARKET or just spending an hour in the Listening Room.”

Anne Ledgerwood, Estate Director at Westfield St James Quarter said: “Charles Jeffrey is one of Scotland’s most exciting and dynamic creative voices, and there’s no better way to mark this new chapter for Westfield St James Quarter than with a programme built around his work.

“Ten days of music, fashion and ideas, right in the heart of Edinburgh- we want people to come and experience it for themselves.”

What’s On: The Full Schedule

Highlights across the ten-day takeover include: 

Friday 11 September

10:00am – Charles Jeffrey’s Listening Room – step inside Jeffrey’s personal archive of music and memory, through curated soundscapes and exclusive content. 

11:00am – Vinyl Lounge with Umbrella Vinyl – independent record store Umbrella Vinyl will be selling curated vinyl featuring a selection of the music that inspires Charles Jeffrey  

3:30pm – Bikini Body: Live at The Sound of Style – electrifying five-piece Bikini Body bring their irresistible collision of post-punk, dance music and percussion to Westfield St James Quarter  

5:30pm – Charles Jeffrey LOVERBOY x V&A Dundee: Scottish Fashion in Conversation – Jeffrey joins V&A Dundee curator Kirsty Hassard, introduced by the British Fashion Council’s Laura Weir, to discuss research, Scottish fashion history and V&A Dundee’s Catwalk exhibition. 

Saturday 12 September

10:00am – Self-guided LOVERBOY Exhibition – explore Jeffrey’s LOVERBOY archive at your own pace. 

12:00pm – Live Music from Her Picture – an intimate live performance from one of Scotland’s most exciting emerging artists, Her Picture is the public confessional of singer Anny Tahaney, whose honest and thought-provoking songwriting is bewitching listeners in Scotland and beyond. 

2:30pm – Fashion, Movement & Theatre with Ivan Blackstock – a workshop exploring the crossover between fashion, dance and performance. 

Sunday 13 September

10:00am – Fashion Photography Workshop: Creating the Narrative with Claudius Ricketts – a hands-on workshop on building narrative through fashion photography. 

12:00pm – Love Your Body Dance Workshop with Ivan Blackstock – a dance workshop celebrating body confidence and movement. 

2:00pm – Charles Jeffrey LOVERBOY: Life Drawing Workshop – life drawing inspired by Jeffrey’s own creative process. 

4:00pm – Charles Jeffrey’s Listening Room

Monday 14 September

10:00am – Self-guided LOVERBOY Exhibition

12:00pm & 3:00pm – Charles Jeffrey’s Listening Room

Tuesday 15 September

10:00am – Self-guided LOVERBOY Exhibition

12:00pm – Charles Jeffrey’s Listening Room

1:15pm – MAC Cosmetics Make-up Workshop – a make-up masterclass from the MAC Cosmetics team in Boots. 

3:00pm – Lucia & The Best Boys x Neptune Studios: Petals and Frequencies – an autumn equinox bouquet making workshop while listening to Lucia & The Best Boy’s new album, Picking Petals. 

Wednesday 16 September

2:00pm – Talk: Tarot, Fashion & Identity with Jade Mordente – a panel discussion on tarot’s connection to fashion and identity. 

2:45pm – Tarot – Find Your Archetype with Jade Mordente – a workshop on finding your tarot archetype. 

3:45pm, 4:00pm, 4:15pm, 4.30pm, 5.30pm & 5.45pm – Tarot Readings with Jade Mordente – one-on-one tarot readings. 

Thursday 17 September

10:00am – Argonaut Books x Charles Jeffrey Bookshop Pop-Up – independent bookstore, Argonaut Books, will be selling a curated selection of books including some of Charles Jeffrey’s favourites and with an LGBTQ+ focus. 

10:00am – Charles Jeffrey’s Listening Room

3:00pm – DJ Miss Mixtape: LGBTQ+ Sounds – DJ Miss Mixtape spins an LGBTQ+ focused selection of records. 

Friday 18 September

10:00am & 1:00pm – Charles Jeffrey’s Listening Room

5:00pm – Ray Laurél – performance from Ray Laurél, where the listener finds solace and security in tales centring an identity in flux, tales of unbridled desire & a yearning for the Divine. 

Saturday 19 September

10:00am – Charles Jeffrey’s Listening Room

1:30pm – DJ Set: DJ Lu – An energetic set to soundtrack your shopping experience at Westfield St James Quarter.  

3.00pm – Cocktail Making Masterclass by The Alchemist – shake, stir and sample during an interactive mixology workshop 

Sunday 20 September

2:00pm – Pippa Blundell: Live at The Sound of Style – Experience Pippa Blundell’s captivating blend of folk storytelling, ambient sound and classically influenced vocals. 

3.30pm – Natural Lacquer Workshop with Moleskine – Discover the beauty of East Asian lacquer art through a contemporary marbling experience 

Proceeds from any ticketed workshops or masterclasses across the takeover will be donated to the Equality Network, which works for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex (LGBTI) equality and human rights in Scotland and has been home to the Scottish Trans Network since 2007. 

For the full programme and to book onto ticketed workshops, visit Eventbrite. 

WESTFIELD St James Quarter? Maybe showing my age here, but to me it’ll always be St James Centre! – ED.

Edinburgh Scotmid colleague celebrates 35 years from shopfloor to senior role

From part-time store roles to senior leadership, four Scotmid colleagues are marking career milestones that together span more than 110 years. 

Their journeys highlight how one of Scotland’s leading convenience retailers continues to grow talent from within, creating long-term career paths across stores, operations, HR and learning and development.

Today, each continues to support colleagues, strengthen the business and help shape the next stage of Scotmid’s growth. 

For Lynne MacGillivray, the journey started in March 1991 in what was then known as a ‘shelf filler’ role at Scotmid’s South Queensferry store while she was still at school. 

More than 35 years later, Lynne is now a senior member of Scotmid’s HR team, having spent the past two decades supporting and developing colleagues across the business. 

Lynne said: “I never expected to stay as long as I have, but Scotmid’s variety of opportunities and strong community values made it somewhere I wanted to build my career. 

“Seeing colleagues build confidence, progress and achieve their potential has been one of the most rewarding parts of my role.” 

Kevin Lowe joined Scotmid in April 2001 as a Regional Business Manager. 

Over the last 25 years, he has supported significant change across the business, including major acquisitions, business transformation projects and the growth of Scotmid’s store estate. 

Reflecting on his time with Scotmid, Kevin said: “When I first started, we had around 50 stores, four Regional Business Managers and the bones of an expansion plan. 

“Today, we have more than 180 stores and a custom-built Head Office. It has been a fantastic growth journey, both personally and professionally, to be part of.” 

Following Scotmid’s acquisition of Morning Noon & Night in 2004, Jane Burns joined Airdrie’s Scotmid store as an experienced manager.  Since then, she has progressed through compliance, training and learning and development roles and is now a Lead Learning & Development Consultant, helping colleagues build successful careers of their own. 

Jane said: “I quickly saw that Scotmid genuinely puts people first. The care, compassion and empathy shown during the transition made a lasting impression. 

“What has kept me here is our people. I feel fortunate to support colleagues as they grow, progress and build careers of their own.” 

While studying Business and Information Management at university, Lynne Hedger joined Scotmid 25 years ago as a Customer Service Assistant. What began as a part-time job developed into a career spanning store management, change management and major business projects. Today, Lynne is Head of Central Operations and a member of Scotmid’s Retail Leadership Team. 

Reflecting on her Scotmid journey, she said: “I did not expect to stay after completing my degree, but I quickly got the retail bug. 

“The people, progression opportunities and support within the Society have shaped my career, with numerous mentors guiding and encouraging me along the way.” 

Margaret Anne Clark, Chief Operating Officer – Services at Scotmid, said: “All four of these incredible colleagues have each made an outstanding contribution and commitment to Scotmid over many years. 

“They have helped serve customers, support colleagues and guide the business through periods of growth and change. Their stories demonstrate the opportunities that exist within Scotmid and the difference people can make when they build a career with us. 

“We’re incredibly grateful for their commitment and proud to celebrate their milestones.” 

Together, their stories reflect Scotmid’s long-standing commitment to developing colleagues, recognising loyalty and creating careers that grow with the business. 

JD Sports opens their largest store in Scotland 

Shoppers turned up in their droves at The Centre, Livingston for the opening of Scotland’s largest JD Sports store on Thursday (9th July).

The retailer, known as the ‘King of Trainers’, which has over 350 stores across the UK, relocated in the shopping centre due to customer demand.

The store opened with a celebratory launch which included a Spin the Wheel competition, running from Friday until Sunday, goody bags and a DJ.

Larissa Fleming from Livingston said: “The new store looks amazing – it is really bright with a lovely layout and has a fantastic selection of trainers and clothing.

I just had to treat myself to a new pair of On Cloud trainers which I’ve had my eye on for a while.”

Tammy Wilson, who was shopping with her son Rory, said: “It was great to pop into the new-look JD Sports store this morning, which my son is a big fan of. 

“He picked out a really nice pair of Montirex shorts and t-shirt, but I have a feeling we’ll be back again very soon – we loved it!”

Pic Greg Macvean 09/07/2026 The Centre, Livingston – JD Sports store opening

Patrick Robbertze, Centre Director at The Centre, Livingston said: “The new larger JD Sports store looks fantastic and really enhances our overall offering at The Centre, Livingston – we are very confident it will be a big hit with our shoppers!”

‘Sephora Summer’ kicks off as first-ever Scottish store opens in Edinburgh

SEPHORA UK has officially arrived in Scotland with the opening of its first-ever Scottish store at Edinburgh’s St James Quarter. 

The landmark opening kicks off ‘Sephora Summer’, a major period of UK expansion that will see four new stores open in just eight weeks.

Spanning 4,961 sq ft, the Edinburgh store is Sephora UK’s 15th UK location and the third opening of 2026, with Glasgow Silverburn set to open in August. 

London’s Carnaby Street and Old Spitalfields Market will also open in the coming days. Together, the openings represent Sephora UK’s biggest period of physical expansion since returning to the UK in 2023.

Thousands of beauty fans queued to be among the first through the doors, before Sephora UK Managing Director Sarah Boyd officially cut the ribbon to open the retailer’s first Scottish store. 

The moment was celebrated with a parade through St James Quarter, featuring homegrown talent including DJ Lu, drag artist Sally Saint Scott and the Red Hot Chilli Pipers.

Sarah Boyd, Managing Director, Sephora UK, said: “Scotland has been one of the most requested locations from our community, so opening our first Scottish store is an incredibly exciting milestone for Sephora UK.

“Edinburgh is a city with an amazing beauty community, incredible creativity and visitors from all over the world, making it the perfect place to continue our UK expansion. 

“We’re looking forward to welcoming both local customers and visitors into the Sephora experience for the very first time.

“This opening also marks the beginning of a hugely exciting summer for Sephora UK as we continue expanding our footprint across the country with both destination stores and new boutique formats, allowing us to bring prestige beauty to more communities than ever before.”

Anne Ledgerwood, Estate Director for St James Quarter, said: “The opening of Sephora’s first-ever Scottish store is a landmark moment for both the brand and St James Quarter. 

“It’s exciting to see Sephora mark this significant milestone with a memorable launch event, from the ribbon-cutting ceremony to the performances taking place throughout the day. 

“Welcoming such an internationally recognised beauty retailer to the Quarter further strengthens the destination’s appeal and gives visitors the opportunity to experience one of the world’s most sought-after beauty brands right here in Scotland.”

Christina Hill, 40 from Fife travelled to the store launch with her husband, Kenny. She said: “This is the first time that I’ve ever been in a Sephora store but I have always wanted to visit.

“It’s amazing they’re finally here – I’ll be travelling into Edinburgh to shop here all the time now”

Her husband Kenny (50) was enjoying himself too: “This is quite an experience, I didn’t know what to expect.

“I enjoy a wee face mask now and then, so who knows, I might buy something as well as my wife.”

Chloe Hicks, 24, from Harthill and Paige McNaught, 19, from Breich got up at 4am to get glam for the store launch – but say it’s all in a day’s work for them.

Chloe said: “We’re both cabin crew and so make-up is an essential part of routine – in fact, I was on call this morning for work and I was so worried I’d get called up and miss this launch. We’ve been so excited about it.”

Paige continued: “It’s so brilliant to finally have Sephora here because we can finally go and see products that have never been in Scotland before.

“It’s been such a party atmosphere today, it feels like a party, everyone is dancing and singing.”

Following yesterday’s official opening (Thursday 9 July 2026), customers visiting throughout the weekend can enjoy a packed programme of exclusive experiences, entertainment and giveaways celebrating Sephora’s long-awaited arrival in Scotland. 

Highlights include:

●      A tartan-themed photobooth.

●      The chance to feature on a digital billboard outside the store by sharing queue selfies.

●      Surprise brand moments from Scottish-born brand BYOMA, as well as Inde Wild, Le Monde Gourmand, Kayali, Sephora Collection and more.

●      Treats for customers from Wingstop, Oakberry and local charity Coffee Saints.

As part of the celebrations, customers making any purchase between Thursday 9 July and Sunday 12 July 2026 (or while stocks last) will receive a Beauty Bonus Card, giving every customer an equal chance to instantly win prizes including goodie bags, Sephora merchandise, complimentary beauty services, exclusive products and discounts.

For the first time, Scottish beauty lovers can shop many of Sephora UK’s most sought-after and exclusive brands in person, including rhode, Haus Labs, Makeup By Mario, Merit Beauty, Half Magic, Yepoda and Tower 28, alongside viral favourites such as Tatcha, Tarte, Summer Fridays and Kosas.

The Edinburgh store will also feature Sephora’s latest Beauty Scan technology. Powered by an advanced lens attached to a Beauty Advisor’s phone, the service analyses hydration levels, oil levels and foundation shade matching to deliver personalised product recommendations tailored to each customer’s individual skin needs.

Customers can also enjoy Sephora UK’s growing range of redeemable beauty services, alongside access to the MySephora loyalty programme, which offers free delivery for every member, points on every purchase, early access to launches, exclusive rewards and invitations to special events through the Sephora UK app.

Today’s opening marks the beginning of ‘Sephora Summer’ – Sephora UK’s biggest period of expansion since returning to the UK in 2023. 

Following Edinburgh, the retailer will open a second Scottish store at Glasgow Silverburn before launching its first-ever UK boutique stores at Carnaby Street and Old Spitalfields Market later this month, bringing the Sephora experience to even more beauty lovers across the UK.

OMNi To Host The Big Meet Event in May After £5M Transformation

OMNI NEARS COMPLETION OF £5 MILLION TRANSFORMATION AND INVITES  EDINBURGH TO BIG REVEAL EVENT ON SATURDAY 2 MAY 

Edinburgh’s leisure and entertainment destination, OMNi, is adding the finishing touches  to its fresh new look as the £5 million pound refurbishment enters its final stages – signalling the start  of an exciting new chapter for the much-loved city centre destination. 

The refurb project has delivered significant enhancements to the public realm with the aim of creating  a more welcoming space for visitors to meet and enjoy.

Improvements include new flooring throughout  the centre, an upgraded and more visible main entrance, modern LED lighting, new seating zones,  and extensive internal structural improvements. 

Neil Mackie, OMNi Centre Manager, said: “OMNi is on a mission to get Edinburgh to meet more and enjoy more. With a renewed focus  on community and connection, the revitalised OMNi aims to become the go-to spot for affordable fun, and meeting point for everyday moments in Edinburgh, from morning coffees  before exploring the city and family meals after a day out.

“We’re excited for everyone to  experience the newly refurbished entertainment destination for all.” 

The refreshed centre marks the start of a new chapter for OMNi and brings with it a programme of  planned and surprise enlivenment and events into 2026 and beyond.

To celebrate new beginnings,  OMNi is hosting The Big Meet on Saturday 2 May – a free event designed to bring the people of  Edinburgh together and give back to the community. 

The Big Meet will bring a burst of feel-good energy to the centre between 11am and 5pm. OMNi brand  ambassadors will be surprising visitors with complimentary coffees, meals, cinema tickets and other  treats, while brands offer up one-day-only deals. Guests can also take home a personalised sketch  from a live illustrator, along with a few extra surprises along the way. 

As part of its ongoing commitment to supporting the local community, OMNi has donated a significant £180,000 over three years to the University of Edinburgh’s Access Edinburgh Scholarship  programme, which supports students from low‑income backgrounds.

The funding will aid 30  undergraduates, with each scholar receiving a total of £3,000 per year. This is funded equally from  OMNi and the University, to help students with personal and academic costs.

Thomas Archer Bata, Director at Triple B, said: “At Triple B, our ambition is always to enrich the lives of the communities we serve.

“OMNi is  especially meaningful to me, having studied at the University of Edinburgh and seen first hand the role it plays as an important social hub for the city. Its transformation reflects our  commitment to creating a welcoming place for the local community to come together and  enjoy accessible, affordable fun.

“We’re proud to build on that by supporting the University of  Edinburgh’s Access Edinburgh Scholarship programme, helping students focus on their  studies without financial strain.” 

Visit the OMNi website for full details on The Big Meet event on 2 May 2026. Join OMNi on its social  channels for latest information and behind the scenes content: Instagram, TikTok and Facebook. 

OMNi is open 6am – 1am, Monday to Sunday. Individual brand opening times may vary, including  Bank Holidays.

One year on, The Range at Craigleith Retail Park is now even better

Great Value Homewares, Furniture, DIY and Art Supplies alongside a fully stocked Garden Centre by Homebase – Your One-Stop Shop for Home and Leisure

A year on from its rapid reopening, The Range Superstore has stepped up once again, completing a full enhancement of the store to deliver an even bigger and better shopping experience.

With expanded departments, refreshed layouts and hundreds of new products added, customers can now enjoy even more choice across the great-value home and leisure ranges the retailer is known for.

Following last year’s swift relaunch, The Range superstore has undergone further investment over the past 12 months, strengthening its position as a true one-stop destination for home décor, creativity and outdoor living.

Shoppers will now discover broader ranges, improved in-store navigation and even more inspiration across every department.

From statement home décor and soft furnishings to lighting, mirrors, wall art and on-trend seasonal collections, the store now offers even greater choice for customers looking to refresh their space. Craft enthusiasts can explore an extensive arts and crafts department, one of The Range’s signature strengths, stocked with canvases, paints, hobby supplies and creative kits for all ages. Shoppers will also find expanded ranges across furniture, storage, kitchenware, outdoor living and family leisure, all designed to deliver style and practicality at accessible prices.

Garden lovers will also benefit from a dedicated Garden Centre by Homebase, bringing plants, compost, tools and outdoor project inspiration back to the local community. Whether updating a balcony, transforming a patio or creating a family-friendly outdoor space, customers can now browse everything they need under one roof.

The enhanced store reinforces The Range’s position as a true destination for home décor, creativity and outdoor living, offering shoppers thousands of products across multiple departments, all at great value prices.

A spokesperson for The Range Superstore said: “We’re proud to welcome shoppers back to a fully updated superstore.

“The Range is known for its breadth of choice and unbeatable value, and this refreshed store truly showcases the very best of what we offer, from home décor and arts and crafts to garden living. We’re excited for customers to come in, explore and rediscover their local store.”

The updated Craigleith Range Home & Leisure (Unit 3 Craigleith Retail Park, South Groathill Avenue, Edinburgh, EH4 2LN)is open now, with customers encouraged to visit and see what’s new.

Fort Kinnaird announces Easter events and offers

Fort Kinnaird is inviting families to get involved with its schedule of fun activities throughout the Easter break (3rd – 20th April), including free Easter and spring themed sustainability workshops at the Leith Collective, and a range of great discounts and offers across the centre.

Liam Smith, centre director at Fort Kinnaird, said: “We love seeing families and friends spend quality time together at the centre over the Easter period and, this year, we’re pleased to be back with a whole host of seasonal activities and offers, with everything from Easter workshops to bath bombs on the agenda!”

Egg-citing Easter fun at Fort Kinnaird includes:

  • Leith Collective workshops: From 3rd – 6th April, Leith Collective is inviting families to its free Easter workshops where children can use recycled materials to make bird feeders and wildflower planters or paint Easter eggs. On Easter Saturday and Sunday, there will also be an egg hunt in store. For more information, head to Leith Collective’s Instagram.
  • Easter bath bomb parties at Lush: Lush is hosting a calendar of Easter parties between 3rd and 17th April, with visitors who sign up via Eventbrite able to make their own exclusive bath bomb, get involved in Easter-themed games, and take home a goodie bag including an exclusive product and samples, for £15 per person.  
  • Kids eat free at Frankie & Benny’s: Between 30th March and 17th April, Frankie & Benny’s is offering a children’s main, two sides, a drink, and a dessert for free with every adult main purchased. Full information can be found on the website here.  

Fort Kinnaird’s opening times will remain the same as usual over the Easter weekend, however opening hours at individual retailers may vary and visitors are encouraged to check with specific venues ahead of their trip.  

  • Good Friday (Friday 3rd April): 9am – 9pm   
  • Easter Saturday (Saturday 4th April): 9am – 6pm   
  • Easter Sunday (Sunday 5th April): 9am – 6pm    
  • Easter Monday (Monday 6th April): 9am – 9pm

For more information and to plan an Easter visit to Fort Kinnaird, go to: 

https://www.fortkinnaird.com/

Sephora UK set to open two major stores in Scotland this summer

Twice the stripes, twice as bonnie!

  • Global beauty leader will open its first Scottish “temples of beauty” in St James Quarter in Edinburgh and Silverburn Glasgow later this year.
  • A host of brands like rhode and Haus Labs will be available to shop in person for the first time on Scottish soil.
  • Sarah Boyd, Managing Director for Sephora UK: “Opening in both Edinburgh and Glasgow this summer is about bringing double the energy, double the access, and double the magic to a country that has long been calling for it”.

GLOBAL leader in prestige beauty Sephora UK has revealed it’s set to open not one, but two stores in Scotland this summer, after years of passionate calls from fans north of the border.

The LVMH-owned beauty powerhouse is bringing its signature black and white stripes to Edinburgh and Glasgow later this year, following immense demand online. 

The investment into Scotland has been hailed by members of the beauty and business communities alike, as the brand is set to open the major stores in quick succession within the same home nation for the first time. 

The Edinburgh store will be located at St James Quarter and will boast 4,961 square feet of dedicated shopping space, while the Glasgow store will open at Silverburn Shopping Centre, spanning 5,048 square feet. 

Hoardings will appear in both store locations imminently, playfully displaying the iconic black and white stripes with a Scottish nod as Sephora says, “Twice the stripes, twice as bonnie!” in both Silverburn and St James Quarter.

Both stores will be will be fully stocked with Sephora UK exclusives and selective brands, giving fans the chance to shop the likes of rhode, Haus Labs, Makeup by Mario, Merit Beauty, INNBeauty Project, Tower 28 and recent newcomer Half Magic for the first time ever on Scottish soil. 

Sarah Boyd, Managing Director of Sephora UK, said: “”The Sephora UK team and I are thrilled to finally reveal that we’re bringing our ‘temples of beauty’ to not one, but two incredible Scottish cities this summer – with fans crying out for a Scottish beauty playground.

“It has been three years since we opened our first UK store; from the very beginning we’ve been searching for the perfect locations for us to open in the region – and we are so happy to have found them in Edinburgh’s St James Quarter and Silverburn Glasgow.

“Opening in both Edinburgh and Glasgow this summer is about bringing double the energy, double the access, and double the magic to a country that has long been calling for it.

“Scotland also steps into a landmark summer, so the timing couldn’t feel more meaningful, and Sephora UK is proud to play a part in a special season that is set to make its mark in the history books.

“We know how eagerly our Scottish customers have waited while we expanded across England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, and we truly want to say thank you for your patience and loyalty.

“Now, Scotland, let’s get even more bonnie together!”

Anne Ledgerwood, Estate Director at St James Quarter, said: “The opening of Sephora’s first store in Scotland is a major moment for both St James Quarter and Edinburgh’s shopping scene.

“As one of the most influential names in global beauty, its arrival brings a new retail experience to the city and an exciting addition to St James Quarter’s growing beauty line-up.

“Sephora’s immersive concept and curated brand offer will our give customers something truly new, whether they are long-time fans or discovering the brand for the first time.”

David Pierotti, General Manager of Silverburn, added: “Sephora coming to Glasgow marks such a big moment for the city and the west of Scotland and we are so pleased to be home to its largest store in the country. 

“Our commitment to delivering an award-winning, first-class retail experience for our guests is demonstrated through our diverse offering of leading names across fashion, lifestyle and beauty.  

“I know our community in Glasgow will be very excited to see another globally recognised brand join us and we look forward to welcoming them to Sephora’s ‘temple of beauty’ here at Silverburn.”

The openings mark a major milestone in the retailer’s ambitious expansion journey, bringing its “temples of beauty” even closer and more accessible than ever to communities nationwide. 

What’s more, following the launch of its Belfast store in February, the Scottish store openings will mark a defining moment as they signify a proud presence across all four nations of the United Kingdom. 

As well as some Scottish firsts, the stores will also feature TikTok-viral favourites featured as part of the retailer’s ‘Hot on Social’ edit, including Glossier, Glow Recipe, Rare Beauty, Sol de Janeiro, Tatcha, and Kosas.

Customers at the Edinburgh and Glasgow stores will be able to enjoy personalised redeemable beauty consultations, gift-wrapping and engraving services, as well as immersive in-store experiences designed to inspire confidence and creativity. 

The new stores will also be among some of the first to introduce Sephora UK’s Beauty Scan technology, which allows Beauty Advisors to use an advanced lens to analyse a client’s skin for a more individualised consultation and personalised product recommendations, including oil and hydration levels and foundation shade matching. 

What’s more, in line with Sephora UK’s commitment to a seamless omnichannel offering, shoppers will also be able to continue the Sephora shopping experience via the Sephora UK app for exclusive product offers, as well as the MySephora loyalty programme, where clients can earn points on every purchase in-store and online, unlocking exclusive rewards, surprise gifts, early access to launches and invites to special events.

The opening of stores in Edinburgh and Glasgow respectively feed into Sephora UK’s expansion strategy to open their iconic “temples of beauty” alongside the retailer’s new, small format boutique stores, which were recently announced to debut this summer at Soho’s Carnaby Street and Shoreditch’s Old Spitalfields Market. 

This updated strategic approach to Sephora’s UK expansion is cemented in the aim to bring prestige beauty to all corners of the UK. Like the calls for stores opening in Scotland, the boutique formats were a direct response to Sephora’s highly passionate and engaged beauty community requesting for different kinds of shopping experiences with the high street shopper in mind – a testament to Sephora’s commitment to listening to its fans on how and where to best show up with their new stores as the retailer expands.

The blend of Sephora’s boutique formats and destination shops with a large sales floor aimed at discovery takes a modern approach to retail, delivering different kinds of shopping experiences for its wide-ranging clientele, reinforcing Sephora UK’s commitment to making premium beauty accessible to all.

To learn more, visit: www.sephora.co.uk

M Core invest almost £5m in the regeneration of The Centre, Livingston

RANKED THE MOST ATTRACTIVE SHOPPING CENTRE IN SCOTLAND

M Core, owners of The Centre, Livingston invests almost £5m on the regeneration of the shopping centre, which includes launching a new leisure hub later this year and a new sustainability programme which includes reusing pallets for planters and bug hotels.

Since acquiring The Centre, Livingston less than two years ago, M Core has delivered a comprehensive ‘repositioning’ of the shopping centre, which is one of Scotland’s largest retail destinations, spanning 1m sq. ft. and attracting 15.4m visitors a year.

The regeneration programme has focused on strengthening its retail, leisure and social offer while ensuring long-term sustainability for the local community.

In 2025 the shopping centre welcomed various new brands, including Wingstop, a 90-seater Starbucks, Sostrene Grene, MINISO and Flying Tiger, with more new openings in the pipeline this year and expansions, including JD Sports, which will be tripling in size and launching in the spring.

Sustainability has been central to the regeneration programme which includes replacing a section of the roof using a 100% recyclable membrane and improved recycling systems, which have all contributed to lower consumption and reduced carbon emissions. 

Further improvements are underway with the phased replacement of the Building Management System which will monitor and control all lights, heating and cooling systems more effectively to help reduce its carbon footprint. Delivery pallets have also been recycled to build planters and bug hotels.

In recognition of the significant transformation at The Centre, Livingston, the company, which is one of Europe’s leading property collectives, has been named a finalist in the Regeneration Project of the Year category at the 13th Scottish Property Awards, which takes place in Glasgow next month.

M Core has also been announced as the leading Investment Manager in Scotland in the Going Shopping 2026 report by Trevor Wood Associates, with The Centre, Livingston ranked the most attractive shopping centre in Scotland.

Simon Eatough, Director at LCP, part of M Core and Asset Manager to The Centre, Livingston said: “Our regeneration programme is well under way at The Centre, Livingston with even more exciting plans afoot.

“Being recognised for our efforts to revitalise the shopping centre is a great achievement for everyone who has been involved in the regeneration programme.

“Our work at The Centre, Livingston is grounded in long-term investment, active management and close collaboration with our partners and community. 

“We’re very proud of the progress achieved so far and remain committed to ensuring The Centre, Livingston continues to thrive as a retail, dining and leisure destination for West Lothian and beyond.”