Aberdeen task force meet with John Lewis bosses
A group of Councillors and other stakeholders have today met with John Lewis and representatives of the Scottish Government to discuss how they can try and keep the shop in Aberdeen.
Last updated 30th Mar 2021
The task force of Councillors, Aberdeen Inspired and Grampian Chamber of Commerce have met with John Lewis bosses and representatives of the Scottish Government.
Northsound understands John Lewis have closed the door on a potential return to the George Street unit.
Proposals are however being put forward for a smaller unit elsewhere in the city, possibly with an attached Waitrose, but we are told it's "very early days" on these talks.
The group are looking to persuade the retail giant to reconsider their decision to close the Aberdeen branch.
It's been agreed they will write to the leaders of the parties contesting the Holyrood election to see what they can do to aid Aberdeen if they are elected.
In a statement the group said "The immediate priority for the John Lewis Partnership is its engagement and consultation with its staff."
But there are intentions to continue discussions once this step concludes.
The meeting involved the group outlining investments being made to the City, including the harbour development and a recently agreed £150 Million Council investment into the city centre and beach front.
The statement continued:
"Collectively we agreed to continue to work together and with other stakeholders to build on today’s conversation with John Lewis. We will seek assurances from the Scottish government around any financial aid to help retain a John Lewis store in the city and protect jobs."
We subsequently agreed to write to the political leads of the major parties asking them what they intend to do to support Aberdeen should they form a Government after the May election. The 23,000-signature petition highlights the strength of feeling from citizens to John Lewis to maintain links with the city and its north of Scotland presence."