Tag: retail

Miele to open Experience Centre at St James Quarter

Premium German appliance manufacturer Miele is to open an Experience Centre within the exciting new district of St James Quarter tomorrow ( 24 June). 

This will be the third Miele Experience Centre in the UK after London and Oxfordshire, and its 100th worldwide. 

The purpose of the Experience Centre is to bring Miele products to life and to provide customers with the opportunity to fully interact with live appliances and experience new technology. 

Whether a customer is looking for a replacement washing machine or researching a full suite of appliances for their new dream kitchen, knowledgeable sales consultants and home economists can help guide them on the products that are right for them.

Miele Edinburgh
Miele Edinburgh

John Pickering, managing director for Miele GB says: “We are thrilled to be opening a Miele Experience Centre within the new St James Quarter in Edinburgh. 

“Our mission is to create quality products that improve our customers’ lives, that are designed, built and tested to last – many for up to 20 years.  We are looking forward to helping customers from all over Scotland make informed decisions about buying new sustainable appliances and ensuring they get the absolute most out of them.” 

Miele Edinburgh
Miele Edinburgh

The new Edinburgh Miele Experience Centre will be a ‘destination of discovery’, where a range of sustainable appliances will be on display including laundry, cooking, dishwashers and floorcare. 

Carefully curated interactive ‘Discovery Classes’ will also be introduced from September to help customers to see and feel why Miele products are different. 

The classes will cover everything from key product features and benefits, quality of design and manufacture through to cooking and recipe demonstrations.

Miele Edinburgh

The new Experience Centre will be managed by Ewan Laing who will be supported by a team of sales consultants and home economists. 

The new store creates eight new jobs and is centrally located in St James Quarter, which is set to be a vibrant new shopping and food destination attracting 20 million visitors per year.  

Miele Edinburgh

The opening tomorrow will have a carnival theme with a spectacular floral installation created by Edinburgh-based Wild Flowers. 

The award-winning and renowned private chef, Mark Heirs will be in store from the 24 June – 1 July, giving cookery demonstrations and serving up ‘street food’ style bites and treats. 

And there will be an exclusive in store ‘Spin the Drum’ competition which will run from 24-27 June, to give visitors the chance to win one of 100 prizes in celebration of the opening of Miele’s 100th Experience Centre worldwide. 

Prizes include a washing machine, dishwasher, vacuum cleaner and £25 or £50 vouchers.  

The new Miele Experience Centre can be found at 243 St James Crescent, EH1 3AD.  Doors open at 9am tomorrow (24 June 2021).

For more information about Miele visit miele.co.uk

Laings Jewellers eyes multi-layered £10m expansion

Family-run jewellers Laings has unveiled its vision for the future, with ambitious new plans to strengthen its presence across the United Kingdom.

After celebrating 180 years of trading in 2020, Laings is now looking ahead to build on its legacy as a leading destination for luxury jewellery and watches with extensive expansion plans set to be unveiled, aimed at enhancing the client experience across its key locations.

Through six generations of family ownership, Laings has grown to become a leading independent luxury jeweller, with six showrooms across four locations – Glasgow, Edinburgh, Southampton and Cardiff.

Laings offers a curated selection of fine jewellery and watches from some of the world’s most prestigious brands, including Rolex and Patek Philippe, as well as bespoke design and repair services by the in-house team of master watchmakers, goldsmiths and jewellery designers.

Now, expanding its retail strategy while staying true to the heritage of the business, the jewellers has announced it will be investing £10 million into the company over the next two years. The investment will see Laings transform its showrooms and workshops, reimagining the customer experience while ensuring traditional jewellers’ crafts are kept alive for generations to come.

The first in a series of transformations will be unveiled this Autumn with work already underway to treble the size of Laings’ St David’s Centre Cardiff showroom, allowing the company to introduce Swiss watch brands such as Rolex and Patek Philippe to its Welsh clientele.

An investment which demonstrates the trust Laings holds with luxury horology’s most prominent brands, who have existing relationships with Laings having worked together for years in other cities.

Stuart McDowell, Retail Director at Laings, says: “The expansion in Cardiff is in response to our client’s enquiries – catering to the watch collectors of Wales who might not have Laings at the forefront of their minds now, but hopefully they soon will.

“The showroom is right in the heart of the capital city and our expanded presence means we can give the brands we represent the stage to shine. No longer will Cardiff clients need to travel outside their home city to access these brands, they can enjoy having them on their doorstep – with Laings.”

Laings is also revolutionising the way its Welsh customers experience diamonds and jewellery with the introduction of private viewings.

The expanded showroom is set to include dedicated diamond and jewellery areas so that clients can view the carefully curated collections in private, with a glass of champagne served by Laings’ refreshments partner Lanson. Despite the changes, clients can expect the same warmth, expertise and attention that they have become accustomed to at Laings.

Laings’ workshops in Scotland will also see significant investment, marking the beginning of a new client experience. For the first time in the company’s history, clients will be invited to join the watchmakers and goldsmiths behind the benches to see their skills in action when completing services, drawing back the curtain on the artisan crafts and allowing the team to take centre stage.

Upon opening, the workshops will play host to client immersion sessions, luxury events and meet the makers demonstrations to showcase expertise, allowing clients to see the intricacies of every service first-hand.

Laings also hopes that breathing new life into the workshops will attract visibility to the industry and inspire a new generation of talent to train in the field. With a recruitment plan spanning all areas of the business, Laings aims to grow its team by up to 25 per cent, providing opportunities for both apprentices and existing watchmakers and goldsmiths in locations where there have traditionally been less positions available, safeguarding these artisan skills for the future.

Laings CEO, Joe Walsh, says: “The workshops create a special experience for our customers. Not only will they be able to talk to the watchmakers and see them working, they’ll also be able to attend events where they can gain a deeper insight into the craft – taking watches apart, seeing how the mechanics work and putting them back together. People are looking for experiences now and that’s what we want – to deliver a new form of retail that captures the imagination of our clients.”

These developments signal the start of a longer-term growth plan for Laings. Over the next 24 months, the company will embark on a journey of evolution to challenge jewellery and watchmaking retail experiences – bringing innovation to every area of the business, while never forgetting the deep-rooted heritage that anchors the Laings story.

Edinburgh ignites the official countdown to the St James Quarter opening

Edinburgh’s skyline was filled with an array of dazzling light last night as an incredible illumination marked one week to go until St James Quarter officially opens its doors.

You can view the highlights of the lightshow here. 

The countdown is on for St James Quarter’s’ much-anticipated phase one opening, and the new fashion district was officially welcomed to the city by some of the capital’s most famous landmarks. From the Balmoral and Edinburgh Castle to Forth Ports and the EICC, all roads led to St James Quarter as the whole of the night sky was illuminated- a symbol of this new city centre integration.

With its prime location in the heart of Edinburgh, St James Quarter is set to become a welcoming, cultural and lifestyle hub for art, culture, and fashion.

Through long-term partnerships with Edinburgh Festival Fringe, Edinburgh Jazz & Blues and the Edinburgh Science Festivals – to name a few – the upcoming opening is set to complement the city’s world-renowned cultural offering and support its vibrant events calendar. 

Inspired by the spirit of Arthur’s Seat and the meeting of tectonic plates, the light show represents the awakening of St James Quarter, after five years of development. Together with festival, tourism and cultural venues across the city, the display is a celebration of connectivity, bringing together landmarks throughout Edinburgh city centre, all leading to St James Square.

Over 500 light fixtures were placed around the ribbon building with accompanying projections and a soundtrack featuring local sound designer, Keith Fortune.

Mick Hay from The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo took centre stage, 55m meters from the ground, conducting the soundtrack with the unmistakable sounds of the drums, as lasers of light travelled across the city in all directions.

Rochelle Weir, Brand and Marketing Director at St James Quarter, said: “As we near the opening of phase one, the anticipation around the city is palpable.

“We wanted to bring this feeling to life, connecting with other landmarks, businesses, and partners across the city to mark our opening and cement our place on the iconic Edinburgh skyline.

“Our phase one opening is a significant moment in Edinburgh’s history, and we’re incredibly excited for the people of Edinburgh and beyond to see what lies behind the quarter. Last night’s display was just the beginning.”

New Year’s Day working petition launched – after 14 year delay!

A consultation seeking the views of business, retailers and shop workers on New Year’s Day trading has been published by the Scottish Government. Union leaders have welcomed the announcement – but say it’s 14 years late!

The move follows an Usdaw petition to the Scottish Parliament, which was supported by the Public Petitions Committee who pressed Ministers to commit to a consultation.

Running for 10 weeks until 24 August, the consultation aims to determine whether the current law should change and restrict large retailers from trading on New Year’s Day as is the case on Christmas Day.

Affected stakeholders, including large retailers and their staff, are strongly encouraged to participate in the consultation which follows a parliamentary petition calling for trading on 1 January to be prohibited.

Public Finance Minister Tom Arthur said: “The last year has shown how much we all rely on retailers and their staff who have supported the country during the pandemic. As we look at recovery and building a sustainable economy we need to consider what will support businesses and their staff in the future.

“Following a petition to the Scottish Parliament’s Public Petitions Committee calling for trading to be banned on New Year’s Day, the Scottish Government has been engaging with business groups, trades unions and others to understand what impact this would have on business and staff.

“This consultation will help us to determine whether the current law should change and restrict large retailers from trading on New Year’s Day, as they currently do on Christmas Day. 

“The Scottish Government encourages everybody with an interest to complete this consultation to ensure their views are considered.

“As we recover from the COVID pandemic we are committed to building on the £3.6 billion in support we have delivered to businesses since March 2020 and ensure we seize Scotland’s economic potential, creating secure, sustainable and satisfying jobs.”

Tracy Gilbert, Usdaw Regional Secretary for Scotland, said: “Today’s launch of a consultation on large stores closing on New Year’s Day, after an unnecessary 14 year delay, is a step forward in our campaign to get a proper break for shopworkers over the festive period.

“As key workers delivering the essential service of keeping the nation fed, shopworkers deserve a decent break over the festive period. They have worked long hours in difficult circumstances throughout the pandemic, faced unprecedented levels of abuse and worried every working day about catching the virus and taking it home to their families.

“However this is not just a campaign for the pandemic, our members have for many years demanded a proper break after the extremely busy and stressful shopping period in the run-up to Christmas. 98% say that large stores should be closed and only 4% are happy to work on New Year’s Day or 2 January.

“Hogmanay and New Year is a special holiday, but this is not reflected in the experience of many retail workers, with three-quarters saying they spend too little time with friends and family.

“We will be encouraging our members to engage with the consultation, to ensure the voices of shopworkers are heard. If we can secure a positive outcome, Usdaw will be calling for the necessary legislative processes to be completed in time for 1 January 2022.”

New Year’s Day Trading for Large Retailers Consultation – Scottish Government – Citizen Space

St James Quarter adds flurry of fashion, jewellery and cosmetics brands to line-up

  • The Kooples, Aeronautica Militare and Nordic Outdoor are the latest international fashion brands to sign to St James Quarter
  • Scottish watch designer Kartel will open its second city centre shop 

St James Quarter, the 1.7 million sq ft city centre development in Edinburgh, has added The Kooples, Aeronautica Militare and Nordic Outdoor to its fashion line-up as it prepares to welcome visitors to the opening of its first phase. In addition, Kartel will extend St James Quarter’s jewellery offer.

The Kooples, Aeronautica Militare and Nordic Outdoor, which have taken 1400 sq ft, 1350 sq. ft and 900 sq ft respectively, will be situated on level 3 of St James Quarter, alongside Kate Spade, Calvin Klein, Tommy Hilfiger, Kurt Geiger, Carvella and Russell & Bromley. Scottish designer Kartel has taken 760 sq. ft on level 3.

Founded in 2008, famous French premium brand, The Kooples, will be offering their rock-chic and contemporary apparel, while Aeronautica Militare will bring its comprehensive Italian wardrobe for men, women and children to cater for formal and more casual styles under the emblems and logos of the Italian Air Force and Frecce Tricolori.

Scandinavian and British outlet, Nordic Outdoor, will be hosting some of the best in modern Scandinavian outdoor clothing & equipment labels with a focus on style, function and sustainability.

Local Scottish watch designer Kartel will be providing St James Quarter’s customers with durable, high-performing timepieces combining handcrafted materials with contemporary high-precision timekeeping.

Chris Pyne, head of leasing for St James Quarter, commented: “These latest retailer signings are another major boost to the mix of international shops alongside popular local brands that we have brought together.

“We look forward to welcoming them all as we prepare to open the first phase this month.”

Caspar Odqvist, Owner of Nordic Outdoor said: “Being an Edinburgh based business, we are delighted to be a part of the next chapter in the city’s journey to become a world class retail destination.

“Our new store has been designed with the modern ‘outdoors’ consumer in mind who value style, functionality and sustainability equally. As an independent we can’t wait to bring our own blend of Scandinavian Outdoors to the most exciting urban development in Edinburgh and encourage everyone to live a little more outdoors every day.”

Bobby Morrison, owner of Kartel, said: “As a Scottish brand Kartel is proud to be part of the St James Quarter opening in Edinburgh. Experiential retail is at the heart of our offering, bringing a new level of customer interaction within our store.

“The quality of retailers in the new development will make the St James Quarter a landmark destination and we look forward to welcoming our existing and new customers alike.”

A game-changing mixed-use development being delivered by Nuveen Real Estate, St James Quarter will complete the distinctive offer of Edinburgh with over 80 new brands, an enticing mix of restaurants and bars, a W Edinburgh hotel, a boutique Everyman Cinema, a Roomzzz Aparthotel, 152 New Eidyn residential apartments, and an unrivalled guest experience providing customers with an enviable events programme in a range of new and attractive public spaces.

Radical plans to transform Gyle Shopping Centre unveiled

Development managers Bankfoot APAM have announced a consultation on plans to transform The Gyle shopping centre into a new ‘town centre’. The proposals are a radical departure from previous plans to extend the centre.

The Gyle was originally opened in 1993 after an investment of £68million. It quickly became one of the most successful shopping destinations in the east of Scotland and was extended soon after.

Previous owners had brought forward plans for small extensions for new retail units and a cinema, but these were rejected last year by the City Council.

Options now include a fully refreshed and enhanced retail offer, major new housing and office space on a site that has some of the best public transport links in Scotland and in an area (west Edinburgh) where up to 18,000 new homes are already planned.

The concept is to create a new town centre where people will live, work, shop and enjoy their leisure time in one of the most sustainable communities in Scotland.

The initial ideas reflect the fact that whilst The Gyle was once at the fringe of Edinburgh, it is now at the heart of one of Scotland’s fastest growing residential and commercial districts.

The options being consulted on include:

  • A new community in which people can live, work, shop, rest and play within easy reach of the city centre and countryside
  • A renewed and revitalised retail offer with enhanced facilities for click and collect, home delivery and other services
  • New homes for families and professionals that bring people to live more closely to their jobs to encourage more public transport use, cycling, and walking
  • A new east/west ‘green link’ that provides better and safer walking and cycling facilities and new public green space
  • Improved access to the existing Tram, Bus and Rail services that run through and around The Gyle

Chris Moore, Managing Director at Bankfoot APAM, said: “When the Gyle was built it was a leading modern shopping destination. However, we are now looking at a new normal that is very different for shopping and living.

“The creation of a new urban city district will help transform the visitor experience and bring many more new residents, workers and customers to the shops and facilities.

“Increasingly people will travel by public transport and the facilities need to reflect that new normal. We have seen the changes that the new St James development in the city centre is making to people’s shopping experience and our aim is to deliver better and higher quality shopping, rather than just increasing floorspace. We have also studied the quality of the proposals for new homes and offices at the nearby Edinburgh Park.

“Edinburgh is changing, and west Edinburgh is changing faster than almost anywhere in Scotland and our plans must reflect sustainability issues and respond positively to those changes. Looking ahead we should consider how best to serve our customers and meet their growing concerns about the environment. A more balanced community is what is proving to work best.

“We will be consulting local residents and communities on our new vision in the near future, and we look forward to starting the regeneration and revitalisation of The Gyle in a way that makes it an even more special place for many more people. The Gyle can again be one of the finest shopping destinations in the country, but our ambition is to make it one of the finest places to live, work and play as well.”

The concept is to create a new town centre where people will live, work, shop and enjoy leisure time, all in one of the most sustainable communities in Scotland.

The plans also include a new east and west ‘green link’ for safer walking and cycling facilities, along with more public green space, as well as improved access to the tram, bus and rail services that run through and around The Gyle.

IOLLA announces new showroom opening in St James Quarter

Popular eyewear brand IOLLA are bringing local centre stage in the new St James Quarter, launching a new experiential showroom and standing shoulder to shoulder with some of the biggest names in retail.

IOLLA launched in 2015, introducing a better way to buy eyewear with their offering of complete prescription glasses and sunglasses for £75. Their mission is to help people look and feel great, empowering glasses wearers to build an eyewear wardrobe thanks to their diverse range of unique frame designs and affordable price point.

The Scotland-born local business is the latest retailer to confirm its opening in Edinburgh’s new £1.7bn city centre development St James Quarter set to open at the end of June.

IOLLA will be opening its fourth location across Edinburgh and Glasgow which will feature a new style of plug-and-play shelving stations, digital screens and modular podiums, brought to life with the help of local Edinburgh design studio Splintr.

Their new showroom design will feature a 360º interactive window display and movable podiums, designed to bring the experience to the customer, replacing traditional ‘checkout’ desks.

By putting technology, adaptability, and the customer at the centre of the new design, IOLLA hope to create a customer journey within their St James Quarter showroom that is unique, fun and memorable.

Stefan Hunter, IOLLA Founder, said: “Our new St James Quarter showroom will be the most enriched customer experience we’ve ever created. Visitors can discover and journey through our brand by using our new creative touchpoints like material and manufacturing displays and an interactive try on garden.

“The St James Quarter showroom is also our biggest yet, and will give us the opportunity to truly showcase our passion for great customer service, great products and a fair price.”

Martin Perry, Director of Development for St James Quarter added: “With the first phase opening of St James Quarter just weeks away, the addition of IOLLA will help further bolster the already formidable array of local and international brands St James Quarter has to offer as we look to build a diverse offering, including some national and city ‘firsts’, that will help create a one of a kind destination.”

Since opening its doors in 2015, IOLLA have been one to watch, paving the way for local retailers and shaking up the traditional optical industry with a direct to consumer approach and designing and manufacturing in their Glasgow headquarters. Despite a challenging year for retail, the brand continued to focus on its growth by; investing in its digital strategy, expanding its design and technology teams and this year will push to increase its overall workforce by 100%.

The opening of the new showroom is a landmark moment for IOLLA, allowing the brand to branch into new territory when it comes to retail expansion and in high footfall locations. 

This is the first step in an ambitious growth plan over the next 5 years for the innovative eyewear retailer, and it’s set to bring more eyes than ever to the IOLLA brand. Visit IOLLA in the St James Quarter from June 24th.

Apply now to be part of the IOLLA team at St James Quarter at jobs.iolla.com.

Protection of shopworkers law to come into force on 24 August

Usdaw welcomes Scottish legislation and urges UK Government to follow suit

Retail trade union Usdaw has welcomed yesterday’s announcement by the Scottish Government, confirming that a new law to protect shopworkers from violence, threats and abuse will come into force on 24 August 2021.

The ground-breaking legislation was supported by MSPs after Usdaw’s long-running campaign led to the Protection of Workers (Retail and Age-restricted Goods and Services) (Scotland) Bill, which was successfully steered through the Scottish Parliament by Daniel Johnson MSP (Labour, Edinburgh Southern).

Tracy Gilbert, Usdaw’s Scottish Regional Secretary, said: “We welcome today’s confirmation that ground-breaking legislation to protect shopworkers from violence, threats and abuse will come in to force on 24 August. We again thank Daniel Johnson MSP and all MSPs for listening to the pleas of our members and giving them the legislative support they so desperately need.

“Retail staff have been on the frontline throughout the coronavirus crisis, helping to keep our communities fed, despite the risks of contracting the virus. Our 2020 survey showed that 9 in 10 shopworkers had been abused last year. This new law firmly backs up Usdaw’s clear message that abuse is not part of the job.

“We are now looking to work with the Scottish Government, police and retailers to promote the new law. We want criminals to understand that assaulting and abusing shopworkers is unacceptable and will land them with a stiffer sentence. Our hope is that this new legislation will result in retail staff getting the respect they deserve.”

Paddy Lillis, Usdaw General Secretary, said: “The Scottish Parliament is leading the way on protection of shopworkers. Today our petition for similar legislation in the UK Parliament is being debated in the House of Commons (see below).

“We urge MPs to support the aims of our petition and persuade the Government to back legislation to protect shopworkers. They have the perfect opportunity by accepting an amendment from Sarah Jones MP to the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Bill, which we hope will be supported in the bill committee.

“Retail employers, leading retail bodies and the shopworkers’ trade union are jointly calling for legislation, so it is time for the Government and MPs to listen.

“We are now looking for MPs to support key workers across the retail sector and help turn around the UK Government’s opposition and follow Scotland’s lead.”

A survey of over 12,000 retail workers has found that only 1 in 5 shopworkers who reported incidents of abuse or violence were satisfied with the official response from the police or their employer.

Westminster’s Home Affairs Committee has published the findings of its survey, which asked retail and other shopworkers to share their experiences of incidents of violence and abuse. Two thirds of those who reported incidents suggested no help was given to them after receiving an initial response from their employer or the police.

The Committee asked retail workers about the frequency of incidents, how these were reported, what action was taken by the police or employers and what should be done to prevent abuse in future. The majority of respondents had both witnessed and experienced verbal or physical abuse at work.

The survey found that 87% of respondents had reported incidents to their employer but, in 45% of these cases, no further action was taken. Half of respondents reported incidents to the police, of which only 12% led to an arrest.

A third of respondents did not report incidents to their employer because they believed nothing would be done or it was ‘just part of the job’. Over a quarter did not report incidents because they believed the police would not do anything about it. 

Respondents felt that better security at retail premises and more severe punishments for offenders would help prevent incidents in the future.

The public survey was held as part of the committee’s inquiry into ‘Violence and abuse towards retail workers’. The findings are published ahead of today’s Westminster Hall debate on an e-petition calling for more protection for retail workers.

The Committee’s Chair, Yvette Cooper MP, said: “During the Covid crisis, we’ve seen an appalling and unacceptable increase in reported attacks and abuse against shop workers.

“No one should feel unsafe at their place of work and there are no circumstances where such behaviour should be tolerated. Thank you to everyone who took the time to share their experiences with the Committee.

“The sheer number of responses we have received shows just how widespread this problem is. In far too many cases retail workers don’t report incidents as they feel nothing will be done or that they’re expected to deal with such appalling incidents as part of their job. That’s simply not the case and it’s clear that action is needed to change this.

“The Committee is currently assessing the wider evidence we’ve received – I hope the Government responds constructively to the serious issues we have identified.”

‘Monumental’: Edinburgh’s new skyline revealed as final crane comes down at St James Quarter

Following five years of construction, 17,378 tonnes of steel, and an estimated 2.835m working hours completed – the final crane at St James Quarter has officially been removed, revealing Edinburgh’s skyline to the public.

Since construction began, 13 cranes have shaped the city skyline and played a key role in the construction of the £1bn project. The removal of the final crane marks another celebratory milestone for St James Quarter, which is working towards opening at the end of June.

Reaching peaks of over 88m, the St James Quarter cranes grows almost as tall as the Capital’s iconic Calton Hill and, over the years, became a much-loved fixture of the Edinburgh skyline. The cranes became a local talking point within the city and lit up the sky at night – a permanent lightshow visible from far and wide.

As the final crane is lowered, it signifies another step forward for the long-anticipated opening of one of the most significant UK city centre transformations undertaken in the last decade.

The phase one opening will bring together brands from global to local, combining convenience and luxury with an offering that includes; Zara, Mango, Pull & Bear, Rituals, H&M, Kurt Geiger, Tommy Hilfiger, Calvin Klein, as well as Dune, Bonnie & Wild, Bross Bagels and Salerno Pizza, ensuring there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Still to come in the latter phases of the development over the next 18 months will be an enticing mix of more shops, restaurants and bars, a W Edinburgh, a boutique Everyman Cinema, a Roomzzz Aparthotel, New Eidyn residences that will provide 152 premium apartments with exceptional amenities, by developers Native Land, and an unrivalled guest experience providing customers with an enviable events programme in a range of new and attractive public spaces.

Martin Perry, Director of Development at St James Quarter, said: “The removal of our final crane is another monumental moment not only for the team at St James Quarter, but for the City of Edinburgh.

“Our cranes have become a significant addition to Edinburgh’s iconic viewpoints for many years and although many will be sad to see them go, it does mean we’re one step closer to opening our doors next month.

“Our phase one opening is a significant moment in Edinburgh’s history, and we can’t wait to share what lies behind the quarter with the people of Edinburgh and beyond.”

M&S stores across Edinburgh share plans for retail reopening

·         M&S stores across Edinburgh, including M&S Gyle and M&S Princes Street, get ready to welcome more shoppers back in store as customers look ahead to brighter days

·         New services launched to help customers Shop Their Way – from contact free bra fit to easier payment options

·         Sparks to boost rewards for customers for two weeks from 26th April – one customer every day in every store will win their shopping for free 

With retail reopening across Scotland this week, M&S is sharing how stores across Edinburgh, including M&S Gyle and M&S Princes Street, are set up to offer customers the inspiration and flexibility to Shop Your Way.

M&S has been continually adapting its store experience, offering products and services that local customers want after a year of significant change.

M&S stores across Edinburgh are offering a range of exciting new products and services to make shopping with M&S easier, convenient and more rewarding – from digital payment options to rewards and treats for shopping through our Sparks loyalty programme. All of this supported by standout M&S customer service in a safe and clean store.

M&S Scotland Central and East Regional Manager, Scott Munro, said: “We’re excited to welcome more customers back into our stores and look forward to continuing to serve our local community.

“Whether you’re looking for our latest Dine-In family feast or those must-have wardrobe staples to see you into summer, we have everything to help you Shop Your Way.

“With exciting new services like our contact-free bra fitting and the Scan & Shop service on our Sparks mobile app, we’re supporting customers however they choose to shop. Whether that’s browsing in store or using our click & collect service, our local team is ready to help.”

Shop Your Way: Easy and Rewarding Ways to Pay 

Following the relaunch of the M&S Sparks loyalty scheme in July last year, M&S stores across Edinburgh are marking the return of retail by offering one Sparks customer every single day for two weeks from 26th April, in every store, their whole basket or trolley of shopping for free.

As well as offering regular rewards and treats for shopping through Sparks with M&S, the mobile App also allows customers to shop in store with their phones with the Scan & Shop with Sparks service offering a quick way to pay without using the till. This follows the recent extension of Sparks Book & Shop to help customer plan ahead and book a slot to shop at a time that suits them.

Shop Your Way: Great new services and stand out service  

Outstanding customer service remains and will always be a defining feature of the M&S experience and is a key reason why customers choose to shop with M&S – from the welcoming host on the door and the brilliant operations teams behind the scenes, to the valuable in-store services offered in-store.

Bra Fit

Bra fit is back at M&S including at M&S Princes Street, the Gyle and Fort Kinnaird, allowing customers to choose between a contact-free bra fit from M&S’s expert colleague by appointment or the new option of accessing M&S’s expert service from home via a virtual appointment. M&S virtual bra fit appointments are available for any customers across Scotland.

M&S Gyle is also improving its Bra Fit service by offering customers on-the-spot payment service Pay With Me – so customers can purchase lingerie straight after their appointment from M&S’s expert Bra Fit colleagues without visiting a till.

Click and Collect

More and more customers are looking to take advantage of the flexibility and convenience of shopping with M&S across both its website and their local store. M&S is making this easier by blending these services and offering local customers free next day collection when ordered by 8pm.

M&S Cafés

M&S Cafés, including at M&S Gyle, Fort Kinnaird and Ocean Terminal, are now open as of 26th April.

All customer toilets will also be back open, with strict cleaning protocols in place to ensure the highest levels of hygiene.