Perth independent is still going strong

Aug 15 2008 by Our Correspondent, Perthshire Advertiser Friday

McEWENS of Perth, an institution in the Fair City and one of Britain’s last remaining independent department stores, is soon to celebrate its 140th anniversary.

To mark the event, the company will be hosting a “staff gathering” this Sunday to bring all its 250 staff based throughout Scotland together to celebrate the occasion.

“McEwens of Perth owes all of its success to its staff,” said John Bullough, chairman and managing director of McEwens.

“It is fitting therefore that the main celebration focuses on them and their significant contribution over the years.

“We have always been a family business, and we will be encouraging staff to bring their families to the party.

“With hog roasts, bungee runs, jousting, obstacle courses and line dancing all on the programme, the staff – who will be entertained by hospital radio throughout – are sure to sleep well after the event.”

The retail sector, especially the private department store business, has had a difficult period. Institutions like Esselmont and MacIntosh in Aberdeen have recently closed.

But during this period, McEwens has steadily developed its business taking on new properties in Perth and expanding their sister stores as well.

John Bullough told the PA he wouldn’t underestimate the effect of the economic slowdown on the high street, but felt that independent stores like McEwens were in a better position to weather the credit crunch.

He continued: “It has had an impact on most of our customers and is due to get worse before it gets better. Where we succeed is by ensuring a point of difference on an increasingly cloned High Street that has lost its character and individuality.

“We try to offer exclusive products, with service second to none.”

“Discerning customers looking for quality fashion or homewares will not tolerate being left standing looking for a member of staff.

“We make every effort to offer excellent service, every time. This is why our customers keep returning.”

McEwens of Perth first opened in 1868 and has been trading successfully on the same site over three centuries.

Looking forward, Ian Mutch, McEwens’ General Manager, added: “We have expanded considerably within Perth, Ballater and Inverness.

“We don’t intend to stand still for a moment and our most recent development in Perth will open in September.

“I am not prepared to announce the development in detail yet, but I can comfortably say it will be one of the most exciting in Perth’s history!”