Acting on behalf of Exchange Court Properties Limited, Knight Frank has let 245/251 Union Street to up-market retailer Cruise who will open their first store in the city.

The two units are located in the heart of the Aberdeen’s shopping district and total 7,835 sq ft. The premises comprise basement, ground and first floors of the granite and glass fronted building and will host two new stores; a Cruise footwear, accessory and bag store and a Hugo Boss franchise which will open in September 2007.

Situated across two levels, housing the season’s most demanded accessory products for women and men, Cruise Footwear, Accessories and Bags Aberdeen will showcase a mix of international designer brands. The store will include a luxurious shopfit which will be designed to embrace the building’s original architectural features.


Hugo Boss Aberdeen will occupy 4000 sq ft of the dual store site and will offer both menswear and womenswear in addition to a full footwear and accessory range.

Cruise will let the property on a rising rent reaching £165,000 per annum at year 5, on a 15 year FRI lease with reviews 5 yearly.

Chris Ditchfield, Knight Frank said: “As the main shopping centre for the North East of Scotland, Aberdeen enjoys a strong retail market which is continuing to attract a range of high street names to the city. The introduction of a luxury brand such as Cruise demonstrates confidence in Aberdeen’s retail market and proves that, despite the emergence of new shopping centres, traditional shopping areas such as Union Street remain popular with both consumers and retailers.”

John Heath, Managing Director Cruise said: “Aberdeen is a vibrant, cosmopolitan city with a strong retail economy. We already have a loyal customer base in the city and feel that there is an opening in the market for the unique concept that is Cruise. In partnership with Hugo Boss we will bring a fantastic selection of brands and products to the city which can only enhance Aberdeen’s appeal as a shopping destination.”

(CD/SP)