The Press and Journal (Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire)
Taskforce appeal for M&S to keep shopping ‘anchor’ in city centre
A taskforce set up to rejuvenate Union Street has written to the boss of M&S stressing its importance to Aberdeen.
Bob Keiller, chairman of Our Union Street, says the M&S at St Nicholas Street is the “shopping anchor” for the high street.
He has written to CEO Stuart Machin to highlight the store’s importance and invited him to round table regeneration talks next month.
In November, M&S said it was accelerating the closure of 68 UK stores – prompting fears for Aberdeen’s largest branch.
Bosses have been tightlipped despite calls for clarity from politicians and city leaders since the plans emerged in May 2021.
In his letter, Mr Keiller said he would “welcome” a chance to discuss Mr Machin’s plans for Aberdeen.
He wrote: “Speculation has persisted for some time that M&S plans to expand its presence in the Union Square mall.
“We understand that the terms of these deals can mean landlords seeking an exclusivity that would preclude you from other city centre locations. This may or may not be on the cards for Aberdeen, but if it is, we would implore you to resist such a condition and maintain your city centre presence at St Nicholas.
“You have said that M&S anchors communities up and down the country, and that this is a responsibility you take seriously.
“I would like to be plain in stating the M&S flagship store at Aberdeen St Nicholas is the shopping anchor for Union Street; your presence is of enormous importance to our city centre.”
The letter also praises M&S’s “remarkable turnaround” after sharing its 2022/23 full year results last week, which showed an 11.5% sales growth.
Mr Keiller described the chain as a “business close to the hearts of so many” as he invited Mr Machin to next month’s talks.
On June 6, Aberdeen and Grampian Chamber of Commerce will host a private round table discussion on city centre regeneration with strategic adviser Sir Howard Bernstein.
Our Union Street brings together the chamber, Aberdeen City Council and Aberdeen Inspired among others, including the region’s economic development group, local firms and the public.
In the eight weeks since its launch, more than 10,000 ideas on how to bolster Union Street have been submitted.
These have ranged from drawing more independent businesses, creating play areas and even installing a zip slide or running track down the Granite Mile.
Mr Keiller wrote: “This newly-ignited civic pride – alongside a rates revaluation which has slashed business rates for vast swathes of our city centre, including your own premises – has given us an enormous opportunity to line this famous street with shops and vibrancy once more.”