John Lewis & Partners today announced that Aberdeen is one of the 8 stores proposed to be closed. This is a devastating decision for the city centre, John Lewis staff and the people of the north east. Our Chief Executive Adrian Watson has been speaking to various news outlets including the BBC, the Times, the Herald and Original 106, on the impact the proposed closure will have on our city centre.
Adrian Watson, Chief Executive of Aberdeen Inspired said:
"This is devastating news for the city given the nearest John Lewis store will now be more than 100 miles away.
"John Lewis is an iconic, trusted and respected retail brand which employs 265 local people, its loss will be felt widely by both staff and the people of the north east.
"Aberdeen Inspired are talking with partners to see if there is anything we can do to persuade John Lewis to reconsider this closure and save the Aberdeen store. Shoppers are attracted to the city by the presence of John Lewis which in turn supports other city centre businesses.
"Whilst Aberdeen does of course still have a vibrant retail offering unfortunately this proposed closure is symptomatic of where town and city centres are across the UK and stresses that Aberdeen city centre needs to deliver a refreshed vision through the city centre masterplan to meet the challenges and opportunities of this modern age and this needs joined up support at both a local and national government level."