Sports retail giant Decathlon has launched a new store in “Scotland’s sportiest city” Aberdeen in a £1m investment that will creates 20 jobs.
The company selected Aberdeen as the first in a series of openings across Scotland and the UK to meet the boom in activity such as running, cycling and walking during lockdown.
After Aberdeen, the city of Leeds is next on the list for the sporting giants.
Decathlon is the largest sports retailer in the world, with more than 1500 stores in 57 countries.
The Aberdeen launch comes after their outlets in Edinburgh and Glasgow saw year-on-year growth as more Scots focus on keeping healthy and fit.
Decathlon Scottish leader Ben Hatton said: “We have seen a huge expansion in sporting participation over the last seven months, with sales in Glasgow up 10 per cent year on year.
“There’s been a boom in sales of bikes, fitness and jogging equipment and this links to our purpose to help people get into sports.
“Aberdeen was a natural choice to launch our plans to expand further in Scotland. We reckon it is Scotland’s sportiest city, with a real passion for outdoor activity such as hiking, running and water sports.
“Our mission is to help people of all levels and backgrounds get into sport, whether that is taking part in their first 5k or going out with the family for a kayak trip at the weekend.”
He said he he hoped the store launch would help make sport even more accessible in Scotland and to get ore people active.
“In these uncertain times it is with real pride that we continue to open stores in the UK, providing low-price sports equipment for all and jobs in the local area.
“Our staff are local, passionate about their city, and looking forward to being very much at the heart of Aberdeen’s sporting community.
“We are also reaching out to help those dedicated people who run sports clubs – for instance we have already forged a strong relationship with The Fit Like Joggers.”
The store opening on 22 October also marks an environmental landmark for Decathlon, as it is the first in the UK not to sell single use water bottles.
Hatton said: “We are aware of our environmental responsibilities and our part to play in the fight against climate change. We are committed to having a positive impact within the community.”
Decathlon have invested £1million in refitting the 2000 sq metre store, which covers two floors, and hiring 20 staff led by manager Kathy Dominguez.
After Aberdeen, they plan to open additional outlets in Scotland, with Glasgow, Edinburgh and Livingston all possible targets.
