Leading retail asset managers Scoop has instructed designers to reconfigure one its major recent acquisitions.

Scoop strengthened its presence in Scotland by acquiring The Thistles Shopping Centre in Stirling in December. Providing more than 500,000 sqft pf retail space across 90 units, it is home to several major anchor tenants including Next, Boots and Primark.

POD Architects has been appointed to creatively realise the reconfiguration of vacant spaces, meet operational needs and respond to the changing dynamics affecting all shopping centres post Covid.

 Mark Hewett, Director at Scoop, said:“The high street is expected to take on a very different form post-Covid and we now have an exciting opportunity to shape the future of the Thistles.

“Future-proofing is vital to ensure primary shopping centres remain relevant and a place where people want to be – they will be about far more than just shopping. We are looking forward to evolving The Thistles Shopping Centre to ensure it remains the beating heart of the city.

 Paul Shedden, Founder of POD Architects added: “Over the years the requirements for retail, and shopping centres in particular, have changed as more and more people seek superior shopping experiences to draw them out of their homes.

“We aim to produce creative and exciting destinations which draw people in. We look forward to embarking on this exciting journey with Scoop.”


Scoop has been consulting with the city’s key stakeholders to identify Stirling’s main priorities and needs, and to establish how the shopping centre can best cater for the local community’s evolving requirements.