Thistles retail mall in Stirling has outperformed average visitor numbers across Scotland’s shopping centres following continued investment and the arrival of six brands.
It welcomed just under six million visitors last year a 3.9% increase in footfall on the previous 12 months, though similar to visitor levels when it changed hands in December 2020. By comparison, shopping centre footfall across the country in 2025 fell by 1.5%.
New tenants included fashion and accessory brands such as H&M and Lovisa, as well as global lifestyle brand MINISO. Jewellery retailer Pandora has upsized its unit.
About £6 million has been invested by landlords and tenants in major works projects to ensure the centre remains in top condition for shoppers, retailers and visitors. The 1,300-space Thistles car park was reopened following a £3.5m investment.
Further improvements are now underway at the Marches Car Park where circa £450,000 investment will see lighting upgraded throughout.
Scoop acquired Thistles for £22.5 million, in its first joint venture with AXA fund management. It is spread over 500,000 sq ft on one level, dominating Stirling city centre, and has responded to the closures of key stores such as Debenhams by repurposing space and securing new tenants.
Mark Hewett, director at Scoop Asset Management, said: “The performance of Thistles over the past year reflects the strength of the centre, the resilience of the location and our long-term commitment to investment.
“Continued growth in footfall, the introduction of high-quality new retailers and significant capital investment across the asset demonstrate sustained confidence in Thistles as a leading regional shopping destination.”
Livingston Designer Outlet
Livingston Designer Outlet, Scotland’s largest designer outlet, said it also saw increased footfall following investment and new openings in the second half of 2025.
It enjoyed its strongest November on record since opening 25 years ago, with sales up by 7.5% YoY for the period, whilst Black Friday saw an 8.5% uplift in footfall and 13.3% increase in sales YoY.
The post-Christmas period from 26-31 December saw YoY increases for sales and footfall by 8% and 3.2% respectively.
New arrivals included Monsoon, Belstaff, Crocs and Columbia, resulting in the outlet having its most successful Q4 on record, demonstrated by a 1.3% growth in sales YoY.
Nicky Lovell, Head of Outlets and Business Development at owner Global Mutual, said: “2025 has been a fantastic year for Livingston Designer Outlet. From major brand openings and expansions to our events bringing the centre to life, we’ve seen record levels of shoppers in key times of the year.”
It is is set to bring in an immersive leisure experience and more dining experiences.
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