Marks and Spencer flagship Aberdeen store closes ahead of schedule

A Marks and Spencer store that has been in Aberdeen city centre for 81 years has closed its doors for the final time.

The shop on St Nicholas Street, which opened over eight decades ago, was closed for good ahead of schedule on Saturday.

Customers are now being redirected to the company’s newly upgraded store just over a mile away on Union Square.

M&S had earlier said that the St Nicholas Street branch would remain open until later in the summer.

However, it has now been confirmed that it has been permanently closed.

Luke Smith, M&S Aberdeen store manager, said: “While we closed our St Nicholas Street location a little sooner than expected, our commitment to serving the Aberdeen community remains steadfast at our fantastic new Union Square store.

“Here, customers can continue to expect the great quality M&S is known for, alongside the trusted value they rely on. Plus, with our expanded food hall, they’ll discover an even wider range of delicious products to enjoy.”

A local MSP has hit out at the decision, describing it as a “very sad day for the city”. He fears the multi-storey building will be left derelict.

Scottish Conservative Liam Kerr said: “Although we knew Marks and Spencer would shut later this summer, the decision to close its doors early marks a very sad day for Aberdeen city centre.

“Having a multi-storey building sitting empty like this will leave a huge void following the closure of John Lewis and Debenhams over the last few years.

“M&S has been based in Aberdeen since 1944 and formed a pivotal part of the regeneration of our city.

“But the consequences of this closure could be felt for years to come if the building becomes derelict.

“This is why I have called for an end to Aberdeen City Council’s ludicrous decision to implement bus gates and LEZs in the area, while also pushing for the Scottish Government to pass on rates relief for shops.”

An Aberdeen City Council spokesperson said: “The decision to relocate the Marks and Spencer store from St. Nicholas Street was made by the business.

“Marks and Spencer has invested £15m in its city centre store, demonstrating its commitment to our city centre and indicating that the move was not motivated by bus gates or the low emission zone.”