Schuh to open new concept flagship store at Edinburgh’s St James Quarter

Footwear retailer Schuh is opening a 5,500 sq ft new concept flagship store on level one of the Galleria at St James Quarter in Edinburgh in May.

Marking a return to the city where Schuh was founded in 1981, the store will offer the latest products from over 80 brands, including Nike, Adidas, UGG and Converse.

Schuh’s revamped store concept includes a redesigned layout, improved navigation, updated product displays and "state-of-the-art" digital screens to spotlight Schuh’s latest campaigns – attempting to provide an overall enhanced shopping experience.

Neil Partington, Retail Director at Schuh, said: "Scotland is at the heart of Schuh – the birthplace of the business. Edinburgh, in particular, has always been a pivotal location for us, as the city where it all began.

"St James Quarter offers a prime opportunity to showcase our bold retail approach. With a curated selection of must have brands and a commitment to exceptional customer service, Schuh remains the go-to destination for footwear shopping in the capital."

The new store will be unveiled in collaboration with sportswear brand Asics, offering an immersive, wellness-inspired retail experience rooted in Asics’ ‘Sound Mind, Sound Body’ philosophy.

The space will invite customers to explore the latest sneaker collections through a "multi-sensory journey" featuring ambient soundscapes and soft, warm lighting. An interactive breathwork guide will also add a moment of mindfulness, “encouraging visitors to slow down and reconnect”.

Chris Pyne, Leasing Director for St James Quarter, which saw a 9% boost to retail sales year-on-year in 2024, said: "Schuh is a great addition to St James Quarter, giving even more choice to our comprehensive retail offer that is now Scotland’s go-to location for leading UK and international brands.

"For a brand with such strong roots in Scotland to choose St James Quarter for the launch of a new concept store, it underlines the confidence retailers have in it as the number one retail destination in Scotland."

The signing of Schuh completes lettings on level one of St James Quarter and follows the recent opening of a Polo Ralph Lauren store on level three.