The commercial landscape across Tayside, Fife, and Stirling continues to evolve, with a flurry of activity impacting shopping centres, local businesses, and the hospitality sector. These regional developments offer valuable insights and potential implications for the vibrant business community right here in Perth and Kinross, highlighting both challenges and opportunities in the current economic climate.
From property sales to new openings and significant refurbishments, here’s a comprehensive look at the latest movements that could shape future trends across our local areas. Retail & Services on the MoveArbroath’s Abbeygate Centre Seeks New Ownership
The Abbeygate Shopping Centre in Arbroath has recently been placed on the market with an asking price of £950,000. This prominent High Street asset, which houses well-known brands like Greggs and Home Bargains, represents a significant investment opportunity. Its availability follows earlier discussions regarding a potential acquisition by Dundee and Angus College. For Perth, this news underscores the ongoing dynamic nature of retail property and the potential for educational institutions or new developers to reimagine traditional shopping hubs, a trend that could inspire similar adaptive reuse discussions for commercial spaces in our own city centre. Poundland Adjusts Its Footprint in Dundee
After two decades of serving the community, the Poundland store within Dundee’s Wellgate Shopping Centre is set to close its doors on October 11. This decision comes shortly after a similar announcement regarding the closure of their Perth outlet. The trend of major retailers re-evaluating their high street presence is keenly felt in Perth, prompting local businesses to focus on unique offerings and exceptional customer service to thrive amidst evolving consumer habits. Long-Standing Dundee Bike Shop Finds New Home
Nicholson and Frame’s Cycle Repairs, a Dundee institution with over 75 years of service, has relocated to Mains Loan. This move comes a year after the previous owners of the Forfar Road premises retired. The longevity and successful transition of such a specialized local business offers a testament to the enduring appeal of quality craftsmanship and community ties, an ethos deeply valued by many businesses in Perth. New Dental Studio for Glenrothes
The Kingdom Shopping Centre in Glenrothes is preparing to welcome KY Dental Studios. The new practice has opened registrations, including for NHS patients, ahead of its official launch later this year. This expansion of healthcare services within a retail environment demonstrates a growing diversification of shopping centres, a model that could be explored to enhance service provision within Perth’s own commercial hubs. Wickes Arrives in Dunfermline
Dunfermline’s Halbeath Retail Park has seen the opening of a substantial new Wickes store, taking over the former Homebase unit. This development in Fife reflects continued investment in the home improvement sector, an area that remains robust as homeowners across the region, including Perth and Kinross, continue to invest in their properties. Blairgowrie Bank to Become Escape Rooms
Exciting plans are underway for a portion of the former Clydesdale Bank building on Allan Street in Blairgowrie, which is set to be transformed into escape rooms. This creative venture is the brainchild of Shaun Donald, owner of Adventure Into Books, who intends to relocate his bookshop to a larger premises that also incorporates a café. This innovative fusion of retail and entertainment in a historic building offers a compelling example of adapting traditional spaces for modern recreational activities, a concept that could certainly spark interest for similar transformations within Perth’s heritage buildings. Danish Homeware Brand Opens in Stirling
Sostrene Grene, a popular Danish furniture and homeware brand, has launched its seventh Scottish store within the Thistles Shopping Centre in Stirling, located next to Superdrug. The arrival of international brands in regional centres like Stirling signals the continued attraction of the Scottish market and the diverse retail experiences available to shoppers in areas accessible from Perth. Hospitality HighlightsArbroath Couple to Launch New Wine Bar
A married couple in Arbroath, Danny Laverty and Paul Johnston, are embarking on a new venture by opening a wine bar. Named Lord Ruben’s, after their beloved dog, the establishment is slated to open in November in the former Pende Cafe on Market Place. This personal touch and commitment to local enterprise are themes that resonate strongly with the independent businesses cherished within Perth’s own hospitality scene. Dundee McDonald’s Temporarily Closes for Refurbishment
The McDonald’s restaurant at Camperdown in Dundee has temporarily closed for a five-week refurbishment, beginning August 26. Such upgrades by major food chains reflect ongoing efforts to modernize facilities and enhance the customer experience, a continuous cycle of investment seen across the fast-food and casual dining sectors, including in Perth. Newport Inn Set for Reopening
Customers of The Newport Inn, a popular restaurant on the banks of the River Tay in Newport-on-Tay, can anticipate its reopening soon. The venue has been temporarily closed since July, but management confirms plans to welcome patrons back. The resilience and return of beloved local eateries are always welcome news, fostering a sense of stability and renewed vibrancy in regional communities like those near Perth. Vision Revealed for Music Hall Dundee
Mark Miller, the new owner of the rebranded Music Hall Dundee (formerly a church building), has unveiled his ambitious vision for the venue. It is set to become a dynamic space for music events, drag acts, and club nights. This illustrates the evolving nature of entertainment venues and the creative adaptation of existing structures to host diverse cultural offerings, potentially influencing how Perth’s own venues consider broadening their appeal. Pitlochry Hotel Reopens as Exclusive Retreat
The East Haugh Hotel in Pitlochry is set for an exciting new chapter under the ownership of Apex Hotels. After a brief period as a private family home, the hotel will reopen as an “exclusive-use hotel,” catering to private groups seeking a luxurious “home away from home” experience. This unique repositioning in the premium hospitality market, directly within Perth and Kinross, offers an intriguing model for high-end tourism and boutique accommodation in our picturesque region. New Operator for Monifieth Premier Inn Site
The former Premier Inn and Brewers Fayre complex at Ethiebeaton Park in Monifieth has been acquired by a new operator, Rest & Recharge, led by American businessman Jordan King. This acquisition puts to rest local rumours and signals a fresh start for the site. The introduction of new operators and concepts in regional hospitality venues is a continuous process that keeps the industry competitive and diverse, potentially bringing new visitors and economic activity to nearby areas, including Perth and Kinross.
These developments collectively paint a picture of ongoing adaptation and investment across the Tayside, Fife, and Stirling regions. While some traditional retail formats face challenges, there’s clear evidence of innovation in repurposing spaces, diversifying services, and enhancing visitor experiences. For Perth and Kinross, these changes serve as a barometer of wider regional trends, offering valuable lessons and opportunities for businesses and communities looking to strengthen their local economies and vibrant high streets.
From property sales to new openings and significant refurbishments, here’s a comprehensive look at the latest movements that could shape future trends across our local areas. Retail & Services on the MoveArbroath’s Abbeygate Centre Seeks New Ownership
The Abbeygate Shopping Centre in Arbroath has recently been placed on the market with an asking price of £950,000. This prominent High Street asset, which houses well-known brands like Greggs and Home Bargains, represents a significant investment opportunity. Its availability follows earlier discussions regarding a potential acquisition by Dundee and Angus College. For Perth, this news underscores the ongoing dynamic nature of retail property and the potential for educational institutions or new developers to reimagine traditional shopping hubs, a trend that could inspire similar adaptive reuse discussions for commercial spaces in our own city centre. Poundland Adjusts Its Footprint in Dundee
After two decades of serving the community, the Poundland store within Dundee’s Wellgate Shopping Centre is set to close its doors on October 11. This decision comes shortly after a similar announcement regarding the closure of their Perth outlet. The trend of major retailers re-evaluating their high street presence is keenly felt in Perth, prompting local businesses to focus on unique offerings and exceptional customer service to thrive amidst evolving consumer habits. Long-Standing Dundee Bike Shop Finds New Home
Nicholson and Frame’s Cycle Repairs, a Dundee institution with over 75 years of service, has relocated to Mains Loan. This move comes a year after the previous owners of the Forfar Road premises retired. The longevity and successful transition of such a specialized local business offers a testament to the enduring appeal of quality craftsmanship and community ties, an ethos deeply valued by many businesses in Perth. New Dental Studio for Glenrothes
The Kingdom Shopping Centre in Glenrothes is preparing to welcome KY Dental Studios. The new practice has opened registrations, including for NHS patients, ahead of its official launch later this year. This expansion of healthcare services within a retail environment demonstrates a growing diversification of shopping centres, a model that could be explored to enhance service provision within Perth’s own commercial hubs. Wickes Arrives in Dunfermline
Dunfermline’s Halbeath Retail Park has seen the opening of a substantial new Wickes store, taking over the former Homebase unit. This development in Fife reflects continued investment in the home improvement sector, an area that remains robust as homeowners across the region, including Perth and Kinross, continue to invest in their properties. Blairgowrie Bank to Become Escape Rooms
Exciting plans are underway for a portion of the former Clydesdale Bank building on Allan Street in Blairgowrie, which is set to be transformed into escape rooms. This creative venture is the brainchild of Shaun Donald, owner of Adventure Into Books, who intends to relocate his bookshop to a larger premises that also incorporates a café. This innovative fusion of retail and entertainment in a historic building offers a compelling example of adapting traditional spaces for modern recreational activities, a concept that could certainly spark interest for similar transformations within Perth’s heritage buildings. Danish Homeware Brand Opens in Stirling
Sostrene Grene, a popular Danish furniture and homeware brand, has launched its seventh Scottish store within the Thistles Shopping Centre in Stirling, located next to Superdrug. The arrival of international brands in regional centres like Stirling signals the continued attraction of the Scottish market and the diverse retail experiences available to shoppers in areas accessible from Perth. Hospitality HighlightsArbroath Couple to Launch New Wine Bar
A married couple in Arbroath, Danny Laverty and Paul Johnston, are embarking on a new venture by opening a wine bar. Named Lord Ruben’s, after their beloved dog, the establishment is slated to open in November in the former Pende Cafe on Market Place. This personal touch and commitment to local enterprise are themes that resonate strongly with the independent businesses cherished within Perth’s own hospitality scene. Dundee McDonald’s Temporarily Closes for Refurbishment
The McDonald’s restaurant at Camperdown in Dundee has temporarily closed for a five-week refurbishment, beginning August 26. Such upgrades by major food chains reflect ongoing efforts to modernize facilities and enhance the customer experience, a continuous cycle of investment seen across the fast-food and casual dining sectors, including in Perth. Newport Inn Set for Reopening
Customers of The Newport Inn, a popular restaurant on the banks of the River Tay in Newport-on-Tay, can anticipate its reopening soon. The venue has been temporarily closed since July, but management confirms plans to welcome patrons back. The resilience and return of beloved local eateries are always welcome news, fostering a sense of stability and renewed vibrancy in regional communities like those near Perth. Vision Revealed for Music Hall Dundee
Mark Miller, the new owner of the rebranded Music Hall Dundee (formerly a church building), has unveiled his ambitious vision for the venue. It is set to become a dynamic space for music events, drag acts, and club nights. This illustrates the evolving nature of entertainment venues and the creative adaptation of existing structures to host diverse cultural offerings, potentially influencing how Perth’s own venues consider broadening their appeal. Pitlochry Hotel Reopens as Exclusive Retreat
The East Haugh Hotel in Pitlochry is set for an exciting new chapter under the ownership of Apex Hotels. After a brief period as a private family home, the hotel will reopen as an “exclusive-use hotel,” catering to private groups seeking a luxurious “home away from home” experience. This unique repositioning in the premium hospitality market, directly within Perth and Kinross, offers an intriguing model for high-end tourism and boutique accommodation in our picturesque region. New Operator for Monifieth Premier Inn Site
The former Premier Inn and Brewers Fayre complex at Ethiebeaton Park in Monifieth has been acquired by a new operator, Rest & Recharge, led by American businessman Jordan King. This acquisition puts to rest local rumours and signals a fresh start for the site. The introduction of new operators and concepts in regional hospitality venues is a continuous process that keeps the industry competitive and diverse, potentially bringing new visitors and economic activity to nearby areas, including Perth and Kinross.
These developments collectively paint a picture of ongoing adaptation and investment across the Tayside, Fife, and Stirling regions. While some traditional retail formats face challenges, there’s clear evidence of innovation in repurposing spaces, diversifying services, and enhancing visitor experiences. For Perth and Kinross, these changes serve as a barometer of wider regional trends, offering valuable lessons and opportunities for businesses and communities looking to strengthen their local economies and vibrant high streets.