Laings unveils plans for new £5m Glasgow flagship
A planning application submitted to Glasgow City Council highlighted Laings’ proposal to revitalise Rowan House, a 19th century retail and office development on Glasgow’s Buchanan Street
Laings has signed a 15-year lease to take over a landmark B-listed building in Scotland, which is set to become the family-run jeweller’s new UK flagship location.
A planning application submitted to Glasgow City Council highlighted Laings’ proposal to revitalise Rowan House, a 19th century retail and office development on Glasgow’s Buchanan Street. The independent jeweller’s £5m investment plan will see “significant updates” made to the iconic 34,468 sq ft outlet space.
Currently occupying the second and third floor office space, owned by Royal London, Laings is now set to transform the full stone-built five-storey building, with key elements of the expansion plan set to build on the workspaces for its growing team of craftspeople and “enhance the overall retail experience”.
Glasgow has been home to Laings since it was established in 1840, with the company offering a selection of luxury jewellery across its three showrooms within Glasgow’s Argyll Arcade.
Stuart McDowell, managing director of Laings, said: “Last year, we announced our multi-layer expansion plan to transform our showrooms and workshops across the UK, reimagining the customer experience while ensuring traditional jewellers’ crafts are kept alive for generations to come.
“The centrepiece of this investment plan is our new flagship showroom in Glasgow, where we’ll be bringing Laings to the forefront while creating unique, immersive experiences for our clients.”
He added: “With negotiations to secure Rowan House now complete, and a 15-year lease agreed, we’re excited to be able to announce our plans to deliver a new retail format that captures the imagination of our clients and further enhances the luxury shopping experience in Glasgow.”
Laings CEO, Joe Walsh, added: “As we continue to innovate with our jewellery and watchmaking retail experiences, we’re looking to bring innovation to every area of the business, while never forgetting the deep-rooted heritage of Laings.
“The Argyll Arcade has been an important part of our story and we’re committed to ensuring the success of the arcade continues. Our three Glasgow showrooms have been invaluable as we’ve built our offering and presence in the city, but as we get ready for this next chapter, we’re open to enquiries about our existing retail units in the arcade.”
