Scoop to Futureproof Retail for a Post-Pandemic Future

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12 April 2021

One of the UK’s leading asset managers has appointed POD Architects to "future-proof" the Thistles Shopping Centre in Stirling.

At a time when retail and consumer behaviours are changing rapidly, Scoop, alongside POD Architects are to start the reconfiguration and futureproofing of The Thistles Shopping Centre in Stirling to realise its potential in a post-pandemic world.

The Stirling shopping centre was acquired in December 2020 and provides over 500,000 square feet of retail space, with a total of 90 units. It is home to several major anchor tenants including Next, Boots and Primark and lies at the heart of the City community.

The Thistles Shopping Centre is set to reopen on 26 April, when non-essential retail restrictions are lifted in Scotland. Similar restrictions were lifted in England on 12 April.

"Future-proofing is vital to ensure primary shopping centres remain relevant and a place where people want to be – they will be about far more than just shopping."

–Mark Hewett

Director, Scoop

 

The Changing Dynamic of Shopping Centres

Award-winning practice, POD Architects, has been appointed to creatively realise the reconfiguration of vacant spaces, meet operational needs and respond to the changing dynamics affecting all shopping centres. The goal will be to re-anchor and future-proof The Thistles.

Scoop is consulting with the city’s key stakeholders to identify Stirling’s main priorities and needs, and to establish how the shopping centre can best cater for the local community’s evolving requirements. 

Mark Hewett, Director at Scoop commented: “The high-street is expected to take on a very different form post-COVID and we now have an exciting opportunity to shape the future of the Thistles. Future-proofing is vital to ensure primary shopping centres remain relevant and a place where people want to be – they will be about far more than just shopping. We are looking forward to evolving The Thistles Shopping Centre to ensure it remains the beating heart of the city.

“The Thistles Shopping Centre is an important asset for Stirling, and is set to provide benefits for the city and the surrounding community for generations to come.”

Paul Shedden, Founder of POD Architects added: “Over the years the requirements for retail, and shopping centres in particular, have changed as more and more people seek superior shopping experiences to draw them out of their homes. We aim to produce creative and exciting destinations which draw people in. We look forward to embarking on this exciting journey with Scoop.”

Picture: a photograph of the interior of a shopping centre, showing people walking around and dining at a cafe

Article written by Ella Tansley | Published 12 April 2021

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