Three businesses which will be forced out of the St Giles Centre later this month have confirmed plans to stay within Elgin.
The town’s only shopping centre will close on January 20 with owners Upland Developments citing “severe financial challenges”.
Waterstones.
Consequently, businesses within the centre who wish to remain in the town have been left scrambling to secure a new location or choose to leave Elgin entirely.
Book retailer Waterstones says it will have more details for customers soon but confirmed that it will look to stay in Elgin.
A spokesperson for the business said: “We will be doing everything we possibly can to remain open and trading.
“We will be back in touch once we have further news.”
Ashers Bakery has two locations in Elgin including one in the St Giles Centre and another on Elgin High Street.
Ashers Bakery.
George Asher, the business’ joint managing director, has revealed that the firm plans on expanding in the town which will protect the 10 employees currently at its St Giles Centre location.
He said: “We already have another shop on the High Street and we are looking to expand on this.
“Elgin High Street has been improving in the last couple of years so we hope to continue to grow our business there supported by many of our loyal customers.
“The closing of the centre could make the High Street more vibrant which could bring some retailers from the centre.”
Ramsdens has also reiterated its commitment to Elgin.
Ramsdens.
Peter Kenyon, CEO of the financial services retailer, told The Northern Scot: “Ramsdens is disappointed to hear of the potential closure of St Giles Centre where the business has a store.
“We hope that both parties involved can act in the best interests of the town’s residents and local economy to reach a mutually beneficial solution.
“We remain committed to operating in Elgin and in order to protect our staff and customers, will be exploring options including a potential relocation should our store in St Giles Centre be forced to close.”
Elsewhere, retail chain The Works will leave Elgin and close for good on January 17 while Subway could also follow suit with franchise boss Liam Dalgarno stating it would be “very difficult” to remain in the town.