Edinburgh's retail history
Edinburgh's emergence as a major UK shopping destination dates
back to the creation of the city's Georgian New Town in the early
19th century.
George Street was originally intended to be Edinburgh's main
commercial street, but its neighbour to the south - named Princes
Street by King George III after his sons, the Duke of Rothesay
(later King George IV) and Frederick, Duke of York - overtook due
to its striking views over Princes Street Gardens to the Old Town
and Edinburgh Castle.
Today Princes Street is still home to
Jenners, the world's oldest independent department store until it
was bought over by House of Fraser in 2006. Opened in 1838, the
store's refurbished designer room now sells brands such as Joseph,
Max Mara and Paul Smith.
Edinburgh's status as the most prosperous UK city outside London
has helped attract a growing number of premium retailers and the
Inspiring Capital is now home to a new luxury shopping quarter and
Scotland's only Harvey Nichols.
A rich mix of speciality, multiple and destination retailers,
all-year-round events including the Winter
Festival, historic settings such as Edinburgh Castle and
ongoing public realm improvements have helped Edinburgh and the
wider city region build its reputation as a retail destination.
Under the brand 'Essential Edinburgh',
Edinburgh city centre is now one of Scotland's first Business
Improvement Districts, an area where businesses have voted to
invest collectively in improvement projects which will benefit the
local economy.
