We are delighted to announce a double contract award from Savills, the leading international property services group.
Savills customer-first approach combined with an in-depth knowledge of property and a global presence enables them to deliver best-in-class property management services to clients, and to offer an enhanced experience for occupiers, visitors, shoppers and residents.
Adding to our Savills portfolio are Victoria Centre, Harrogate and Woolshops Shopping Centre, Halifax, where we carry out the full facilities management service of security, cleaning and maintenance.
Victoria Centre, Harrogate.
Inspired by the Palladio masterpiece of the façade of the Basilica in Vicenza in Italy, the Victoria Centre is the only shopping centre in Harrogate. With 28 mainstream shops and over 145,000 sq. ft it occupies a demanding position opposite the main train station.
Centre Manager, James White, comments, “We were very impressed with Aston Services ability and flexibility to react quickly and effectively in what is a rapidly changing retail environment. Savills have a high expectation and requirement for ongoing staff development and Aston deliver on this through World Host Training. In fact, I would say that our relationship with Aston works due to our shared people-centric ethos. The bottom line is they care and are dynamic throughout their operations and communications. I look forward to working with them.”
Woolshops Shopping Centre, Halifax.
Built in 1983 and extended in 2000, the name Woolshops dates from medieval times and is derived from the wool trading warehouses which were located in this part of Halifax. The centre still contains several listed buildings dating from the 17th Century and is the only street in the world called Woolshops. The centre’s proximity to the recently refurbished Piece Hall, the sprawling 18th-century cloth hall which now houses the library, historic exhibits, shops, bars & restaurants, guarantees a continuous footfall.
The centre is fully let and comprises 250,000 sq. ft housing a broad range of mainstream retail outlets.
Jason Gregg, Centre Manager, says, “The refurbishment of the Piece Hall has helped contribute to a 22% rise in visitor numbers here at Woolshops. Our requirement was for a contractor to meet our operational and training needs going forward. Aston Services Group have proven that they can deliver support and operational efficiency which has definitely improved staff loyalty and motivation. Our team is valued and lines of communication mean that issues can be dealt with quickly and effectively.”
Alistair Clayton, Aston Services Group Commercial Director, commented, “These two new contracts are a great addition to our portfolio. Savills’ expectations and approach to property management services are market leading and for Aston to be entrusted with these prestigious shopping centres is a great endorsement of our capabilities. Relationship and communication are the key factors and we are dedicated to the smooth operational running and staff development at both sites.”