Inverurie town centre bucks national trend for new businesses opening
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Inverurie has seen an influx of new businesses in the community with it bucking the national trend as it emerges from lockdown.
With the new additions to the town centre it now means there are more firms trading than there were prior to start of the pandemic last year.
Nine businesses have opened and three have relocated to larger premises. The town has also seen only two relocate out of the community.
The change has been welcomed by BID manager at We Are INverurie Derek Ritchie.
He said: "Inverurie town centre has emerged from lockdown with more businesses than there were prior to the first lockdown last year.
"The town centre has only seen two closures within that period and now has very few empty shop units because so many new businesses have had the confidence to open up in the town centre after a major pandemic.
"Our vibrant town centre continues to attract new businesses and it is worth noting that the nine new ones that have already opened, or are due to open, are largely independent operators.
"There has also been three businesses that have relocated within the town centre to larger premises."
New to the town centre are Katsize Lingerie; RM Hair Studio; and clothing boutique Aleca Style Collective.
Also opening their doors are Tax Assist Accountants; Northwood Lettings and Estate Agency; and Turkish barbers Ace of Blades 2.
Welcoming customers as well are beauty therapists Simply Divine by Emma; Beauty by Avril; and a multi-use space at Number 8 High Street, which is the new home of Nemesis Kickboxing Academy.
Business that have relocated to larger premises are Stewart Travel; Aspire Aesthetics which provides beauty, cosmetic and personal care; and bridal store Midnight Elegance.
Speaking of her move from Burn Lane to the High Street, Midnight Elegance owner Kathy Yates said: "Previously, we could only have one appointment at a time.
"Now, with a floor for bridalwear and a floor for bridesmaid, flower girl, prom and evening dresses, as well as three fitting areas, we’re much more flexible.
"With a waiting list of 150 that we couldn’t keep up with there was no doubt about whether or not the demand was there."
The businesses that have relocated out of Inverurie are Duncan’s Barbers and Kings Kitchens and Bathrooms.
It is not just traders that have benefitted from the opening of the new spaces in the town.
With the new multi-use building at Number 8 community sports group Nemesis Kickboxing Academy has a new base to hold its sessions.
Fiona Birkett from the academy said of the move: "Having the new premises and something we are all going to be part of is great.
"It is a fantastic space and we know the students are going to love it. It was something we really wanted for them as well as ourselves.
"It's a big moment and we are so happy we have managed to do it and that we can provide this for our students to give them the best experience."
