Trinity Centre empty units to be taken over by local traders in run-up to Christmas

The new owners are keen to inject as much life as possible into the Aberdeen shopping centre over the festive period.

By Ben Hendry

November 7 2023, 5:30 pm

In Christmases past, names like Debenhams would draw shoppers to the Trinity Centre. This year, bosses want to promote local traders. Image: Kami Thomson/DC Thomson

Aberdeen’s Trinity Centre is offering up its empty units in an effort to promote local traders over Christmas.

The new owners of the Aberdeen mall are preparing to open up unused space to as many independent businesses as possible.

Bosses are now issuing a rallying cry for stallholders to come forward, promising “affordable rates” at the city centre location.

Christmas shoppers at the Aberdeen Debenhams in the Trinity Centre in 2008. Image: Kami Thomson/DC Thomson

They hope that, where once people flocked to the Trinity Centre to splash out at major high street chains like Debenhams, this Christmas they will choose gifts that are “local, independent and quality”.

Those behind it say they want to “fill the place up”, with room for dozens of producers.

Local traders to step into Christmas at the Trinity Centre

The ploy is the latest move from the Aberdeen-based Ardent Group, who took over the beleaguered shopping centre this summer.

Since then, they have “stopped the exodus” of firms planning to flit and brought a local cinnamon roll venture onto Union Street.

The Trinity Centre on Union Street in Aberdeen has been sold. — Aberdeen’s Trinity Centre. Image: Wullie Marr/DC Thomson

When will Trinity Centre Christmas plans get under way?

Now, the company is getting into the festive spirit with a fresh drive to support north-east companies.

Trinity management say they are “working really hard behind the scenes to promote local and small businesses”.

The new project will run from Thursday, November 23, up until Christmas “and beyond”.

They say the Trinity Centre will become a “place for creatives, makers, artists, crafters, producers and so much more”.

The Trinity Centre was snapped up by the owners of the Douglas Hotel this summer. Image: Kenny Elrick/DC Thomson

Do you support local at Christmas? Let us know in our comments section below

Plans come as footfall is ‘ever-increasing’

The appeal for traders explains: “Our footfall in the centre is excellent and ever-increasing.

“We have 400 parking spaces in the centre with discounts available. There are local hands now at the helm of the centre and we’re all about collaboration.

“Whether you’re a seasoned hand at market life or a newbie looking to test the waters, now is your time.”

People can register their interest here.

Read more about the team behind Aberdeen’s Shiprow revolution taking over the Trinity Centre.
And our tracker keeps you updated on all the latest closures and openings in Aberdeen.

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