Every industry has its own version of the Oscars ‘Best Picture’ award. Whatever line of work you’re in, there will probably be an annual prize that’s considered the most prestigious honour that an individual or organisation can get . Architecture has the Stirling Prize, galleries and museums have the Art Fund Museum of the Year, aviation has the Skytrax World Airline Awards – you get the idea. Now, the winner of the most prestigious prize in the retail world has been announced.
Are you ready for it? The SCEPTRE award for Britain’s retail destination of the year went to Silverburn Shopping Centre in Glasgow.
The shopping centre opened in Pollok (the southwest side of Glasgow) back in 2007. It spans an enormous one million square feet, with more than 100 high street stores, restaurants, cafes, independent boutiques and leisure facilities.
SCEPTRE’s award recognises Silverburn’s major growth over the last few years. So far this year, it has welcomed one million more shoppers than this time last year, and has opened 24 new stores and 10 kiosks in the last 18 months alone.
The judging panel said: ‘Over the past 18 months Silverburn has delivered record-breaking results, driven by a strategic transformation that has strengthened its reputation as one of Scotland’s most dynamic and resilient retail and leisure destinations.’ Silverburn’s most recent additions include Scotland’s first Haribo shop, Scotland’s largest Zara, Glasgow’s first Bershka and Pull & Bear stores and a King Pins bowling alley.
David Pierotti, general manager of Silverburn, said: ‘This win, alongside record-breaking customer numbers, is a testament to the dedication of our incredible team and partners, who have worked tirelessly over the past 18 months to transform Silverburn into something truly special.
‘Silverburn has always been about more than just a place to enjoy shopping, we have worked hard to create a destination our community and guests can be proud of, one that champions local employment and contributes meaningfully to Glasgow’s continued growth.’
The Scottish shopping centre beat the likes of Bluewater Shopping Centre in Kent, Trinity Walk Shopping Centre in Wakefield, and Stamford Quarter in Altrincham. The runner-up prize went to Victoria, Leeds.
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