Australian bootmaker R.M.Williams announces the opening of its first Scottish store in Edinburgh, set for Thursday, 22nd January 2026. The opening marks a significant milestone in the brand’s UK journey, representing both its first standalone store in Scotland and its first store opening of 2026.
Situated within the former ESPC building in the heart of Edinburgh’s city centre, the new store brings nearly a century of Australian craftsmanship to one of Scotland’s most established and prestigious retail addresses. Located on George Street, between Charlotte Square and St Andrew Square, the store sits among architecture defined by endurance, precision and longevity, which are values long shared by R.M.Williams.
Designed by ACRD, the Melbourne-based design studio known for its considered, material-led approach, the Edinburgh store brings a contemporary lens to R.M.Williams’ heritage. The space balances restraint, craftsmanship and timeless design, with a focus on quality and subtle references to both Australian and Scottish traditions of making.
The Edinburgh store presents a considered expression of the R.M.Williams world, offering brand-renowned services such as expert boot fitting, ongoing repair and restoration processes, complimentary boot polishing, plus embossing or debossing to personalise purchases. Conceived as a craft space, the store offers insight into R.M.Williams’ approach to making, highlighting materials, construction and finishing details, and reinforcing the brand’s belief in physical retail as a place for craftsmanship, service and storytelling.
“Customers from Scotland, and Edinburgh in particular, have supported R.M.Williams for many years,” said Karl Wederell, general manager of R.M.Williams UK & Europe, “so strategically, it feels right to be opening our first Scottish store in the heart of the city on George St. We build for wear and longevity. Similarly, Scottish industry has a heritage rooted in craftsmanship, high-quality materials, and pride in work that endures. Our customers here recognise that consideration and they expect it. Our first Scottish store is a focused response to a loyal community that values enduring design and real workmanship.”
The George Street opening underscores R.M.Williams’ long-term commitment to the UK market and reflects a considered arrival shaped by heritage and community. Less a launch and more a homecoming, the Edinburgh store provides a permanent home for customers who knew the brand years before the store existed.
The opening will be marked with a launch event that thoughtfully integrates local Scottish heritage and tastemakers, selected for their relevance to craft, culture and quality.
Store Address: 107 George Street, Edinburgh, UK
Opening Thursday 22nd January, ongoing opening times will be 10am-6pm Monday to
Saturday and 11am-5pm on Sunday.
